Police confirm arrest for tragedy chanting during Liverpool defeat at Manchester United

In response to Sunday’s tragic chanting at Old Trafford, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that an arrest has been made.

A general interior view of the Old Trafford tunnel as both teams walk out to fans protesting against the clubs ownership of The Glazer family during the Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final fixture between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford on March 17, 2024 (Image: Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

An arrest has been made in connection with Sunday’s tragedy chanting at Old Trafford, according to Greater Manchester Police.

A memorable FA Cup quarterfinal match saw hosts Manchester United defeat Liverpool 4-3, but the game itself was tainted by some fans singing about the Heysel and Hillsborough tragedies of 1985 and 1989, respectively.

The Football Association announced following the match that they would assist the local police in their efforts to find offenders, and GMP subsequently confirmed that an individual had been taken into custody as a result of the abuse.

“GMP can confirm that an arrest has been made in connection with tragedy chanting at the Manchester United vs. Liverpool game this afternoon,” stated a statement from Greater Manchester Police.

Tragic chanting incidents won’t be accepted and will be dealt with strongly. While taunting opponents during football games is a common occurrence, it is usually done in a lighthearted and offensive manner.

“The incidents today crossed the line of what is acceptable, and we will work closely with both clubs to identify anyone responsible for committing offences during the event.”

“We are aware of the reported tragedy chanting during today’s FA Cup fixture between Manchester United and Liverpool, and we will be liaising with and supporting Greater Manchester Police,” the FA said following the game on Sunday.

“We are committed to putting an end to any disrespectful, abusive, or discriminatory chants in football stadiums. It can have a negative, long-lasting effect on players and communities in our game, and it is totally unacceptable.

“It must stop and we support any club and their fans who try to eradicate this from the terraces.”

After Scott McTominay’s opening goal in the tenth minute, Liverpool rallied with goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah to make it 2-1 before substitute Anthony scored late to force extra time.

Marcus Rashford tied the score at 112 minutes, following a goal by Harvey Elliott that put the visitors up 3-2, and Amad Diallo’s late goal sealed the victory.

Next month, at Wembley, United will play Championship team Coventry City in the semi-final; Manchester City will play Chelsea in the other match.