Everton forward Thierno Barry has clarified that his friends, shown in a social media video of an alleged attack in the away end, were not Arsenal supporters following the 2-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium.
Barry posted the footage after the match, which depicted individuals he invited facing aggression. Authorities have opened an investigation into the matter.
Barry Addresses Misinformation
In a statement on X, Barry emphasized: “I would like to speak one last time regarding the incident that occurred after the match. Some of the information circulating does not reflect reality. Contrary to what has been suggested, I never gave tickets to Arsenal supporters.”
These supporters have backed him across his career, from Beveren and Basel to Villarreal and Everton. Some wore Everton shirts bearing his name during the game.
“During the match, they were approached twice by supporters who asked whether they were supporting the opposing team. They clearly stated that this was not the case and that they were there to support me,” Barry noted.
Individuals in certain videos belong to relatives of another Everton player. They faced confrontation after a group mistakenly thought they celebrated Arsenal’s goal.
Stewards observed the scene as Barry’s friends endured insults. “My friends were insulted, how is that even possible? I simply want to remind everyone that violence has no place in football, regardless of the circumstances,” he stated.
Barry trusts the ongoing probe and will avoid further remarks to respect the process.
Police Update
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed: “Officers and stewards responded to the incident. No serious injuries were reported. Enquiries are ongoing and we are working with both clubs to identify those involved. There have been no arrests.”
Match Summary
Arsenal claimed a 2-0 win with late strikes from Viktor Gyokeres and Max Dowman in stoppage time, strengthening their Premier League title push.
