Newcastle’s Bruno and Willock racially abused on social media after Arsenal game

[1/2]Soccer Football – Premier League – Newcastle United v Arsenal – St James’ Park, Newcastle, Britain – November 4, 2023 Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes in action with Arsenal’s Fabio Vieira Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith/ File Photo Acquire Licensing Rights

Nov 5 (Reuters) – Newcastle United have condemned racist abuse sent to Bruno Guimaraes and Joe Willock on social media following Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the Premier League.

“Our message is clear. There is no room for racism in football or society,” the club said.

“We are providing support to Bruno and Joe and will work with relevant authorities and social media platforms to identify those responsible so that they can be held to account.”

Bruno escaped a booking for a late elbow on Arsenal midfielder Jorginho in a tense and fractious contest at St James’ Park.

Willock, a former Arsenal player, was involved in the controversial goal when the Englishman kept the ball in play near the corner flag, with VAR unable to determine whether the ball had gone out completely or not.

The 24-year-old posted screenshots of the racist abuse he received on Instagram with the caption: “It’s a game of football mate, no need for this. Instagram, please find this person.”

Anti-discriminatory body Kick It Out said the two players were “targeted with disgusting racial abuse”, adding that social media companies must offer better safeguards and cannot escape without consequences.

“Sadly, this has been an almost weekly occurrence this season, and the costs on players’ mental health are huge,” Kick It Out said.

“That is why the new Online Safety Act must click into gear as soon as possible so that players are better protected.”

The Premier League and Arsenal also condemned the discrimination the players suffered, with the north London club saying they would take a “zero tolerance approach”.

“We will apply the strongest possible action to anyone we can identify sending hateful messages,” Arsenal said.

Anthony Gordon scored the winner after VAR also checked for a foul and offside to hand Arsenal their first league defeat of the season.

Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Christian Radnedge

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