Colgone hit out and apologise

Cologne apologised for the disturbances. The Bundesliga club, though, also hit back at their limited ticket allocation and criticised “organisers” for being “not adequately prepared”, while insisting the police presence was “too small”. Cologne claimed some Arsenal tickets were passed on “for horrendous prices”.

Wenger said Arsenal had done everything possible to manage the situation and should not face ramifications.

The Arsenal boss, who takes his side to face Premier League champions Chelsea tomorrow, admitted that he was almost certain Thursday’s game would be postponed as police and event staff battled to get the crowds under control.

Arsenal issued a statement yesterday insisting the safety of supporters was the main concern at the time as the Premier League club “launched a full review” of the events.

Arsenal say the club will take measures to avoid any repeat of the issues faced on Thursday night.

“The 3,000 tickets issued to Cologne fans was in line with competition rules but it is clear many more visiting fans arrived, causing significant congestion and disturbance outside the stadium before kick-off,” a statement said.

“Many tickets were sold through touts and this is very disappointing and something we continue to work hard to address.”