Uefa charges Liverpool after fans attack Manchester City bus on way to Anfield
Liverpool have been charged by Uefa after Manchester City’s team bus was pelted with bottles and cans ahead of their Champions League defeat at Anfield.
Disciplinary proceedings regarding the setting-off of fireworks, throwing of objects, acts of damage and crowd disturbances will be dealt with by Uefa’s control, ethics and disciplinary board on 31 May.
Despite the incidents taking place in streets surrounding Anfield, Article 16 of Uefa’s regulations about order and security at games states “host clubs and national associations are responsible for order and security both inside and around the stadium before, during and after matches”.
City coach Manel Estiarte posted footage from inside the team bus which shows numerous objects hitting the coach to highlight the “unacceptable” behaviour of fans.
“No words. Unacceptable,” Estiarte wrote alongside his post.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola offered a sarcastic response to security staff after their coach sustained significant damage.
At least one window was smashed on the journey through streets filled with thousands of fans, a number throwing flares and smoke bombs, and a replacement vehicle had to be found for the trip home after the 3-0 firstleg loss.
In footage obtained by Spanish television station Gol, Guardiola appeared to be unhappy with the arrangements for their arrival.
Getting off the bus in the area under the Main Stand the City boss gave the thumbs up to stewards and said sarcastically in Spanish “thanks for protecting us” and then “Shame”.