'Disgusting' footage of Man City fans chanting about Bobby Charlton has emerged as club release statement

Footage of Manchester City fans' offensive chants about Bobby Charlton during their clash against Brighton has emerged on social media.

The Manchester United and England legend sadly passed away on Saturday aged 86.

The world of football came together to mourn his death, with players and fans alike offering their condolences to Charlton's family.

However, not everyone was quite so sensitive, with a handful of Manchester City supporters heard singing offensive chants about Charlton during their 2-1 win over Brighton.

A video circulating on social media showed one group singing, "Boby's in a box" on an Etihad Stadium concourse. You can watch the footage below.

Manchester City have since responded to reports of the chanting and launched a public appeal for any information anyone may have about the individuals to help them be banned.

A statement from the club read: "Manchester City FC are extremely disappointed to have learned of reports of offensive chanting from a small number of individuals about Sir Bobby Charlton in some of the concourses of Etihad Stadium during half-time of yesterday's Premier League fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion.

"The club condemns these chants in the strongest terms and apologises unreservedly to the family and friends of Sir Bobby, and to all those at Manchester United.

"On this day of all days, when the stadium stood to pay tribute to our own legend in Francis Lee, Manchester City supporters should understand and appreciate as keenly as anyone the need for respect in our game.

"Our security team are studying CCTV footage of the concourse areas. We are thankful to those who have already come forward to report this matter.

"We continue to appeal for any information that can help us identify the individuals involved so that we can take the appropriate action to issue banning orders."

"Fans who see or hear abusive behaviour are encouraged to text 0770 0151 894 to make our dedicated security team aware of what they have witnessed."

The Premier League have since responded to reports of the chants, confirming they are in support of City's investigation.

The Premier League's official Twitter account wrote: "The Premier League is appalled to hear reports of chanting related to Sir Bobby Charlton at yesterday’s game at Etihad Stadium.

"We welcome Manchester City seeking information on those responsible and will support any subsequent action."

City make the short trip to Old Trafford next weekend for the first Manchester derby of the season, and Guardiola said his will play their part in further tributes to a true football legend.

"Next week when we go there, to Old Trafford, the first time, we will be present to make a tribute," he said. "I love this country for many things, but one of the things is how they take care of legends. They are part of the club, they travel and represent."

After graduating through the club's youth Academy, Charlton played 758 games and scored 249 goals over 17 years at Old Trafford, winning the European Cup, three league titles and the FA Cup.

For his country, he won 106 caps and scored 49 goals, and famously lifted the 1966 World Cup.

Topics: Manchester City, Manchester United, Football, Premier League

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno