SOCCER: Man City condemn alleged racist abuse of Semenyo, Guehi in Everton draw

Manchester City said forward Antoine Semenyo was subjected to racist abuse during their 3-3 draw against Everton on Monday, while teammate Marc Guehi was also targeted on social media after the match.

Everton confirmed in a separate statement that Merseyside Police arrested a 71-year-old man on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offense. The arrest followed reports from fans and stadium stewards regarding abuse directed at an opposition player.

The individual has been released on bail under strict conditions, including a ban from going within one mile of any designated sports stadium for up to four hours before kickoff, during matches, and up to four hours after the final whistle.

Manchester City welcomed the swift action taken by Everton and the authorities in identifying a suspect, while also condemning the racist abuse aimed at Guehi online.

Guehi endured a difficult moment during the match after a misplaced pass back to goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma allowed Everton striker Thierno Barry to equalize in the second half.

“We are also incredibly disappointed to hear that Marc Guehi was subject to a series of vile racist social media posts last night,” City said in a statement. “We will continue to offer our full support to both Antoine and Marc and never accept discrimination of any kind in our game.”

The result leaves Manchester City five points behind league leaders Arsenal, although Pep Guardiola’s side still has a game in hand.

-Reporting by Rohith Nair in BengaluruEditing by Toby Davis/Reuters