Man United and Leeds release joint statement over offensive chants during Premier League clash

Manchester United and Leeds United have released a joint statement over the offensive chants which were heard during their Premier League clash on Sunday afternoon.

After a tightly contested 2-2 draw at Old Trafford during the week, Erik ten Hag’s men were looking to secure all three points at Elland road.

Leeds created the better chances but failed to take them and they were punished in the last 10 minutes as the red-hot Marcus Rashford continued his fine form to head United in front.

Alejandro Garnacho sealed the victory in the 85th minute as he made it 2-0 with a neat finish.

However, the match was marred by offensive chanting from both sets of fans regarding each club’s historic tragedies.

It was reported that some Leeds fans were seen mimicking an aeroplane whilst chanting about the Munich air disaster prior to kick-off.

In return, a section of the away fans chanted about the two Leeds fans who were killed in Istanbul.

This has led to a joint statement being released just before the final whistle.

It read: “The following statement has been issued by Manchester and Leeds United, following the Premier League fixture at Elland Road.

“Both clubs strongly condemn chanting from both sets of fans regarding historic tragedies at today’s game.

“Such behaviour is completely unacceptable and we will continue to work together with our respective fan groups and the Premier League and other authorities on eradicating it from football.”

We strongly condemn chanting from both sets of fans regarding historic tragedies during today’s game.#MUFC || #LEEMUN

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 12, 2023

The Premier League have also released a statement of their own regarding the chants.

It said: “The Premier League condemns the chanting heard during today’s match between Leeds United and Manchester United.

“The League is treating the issue of tragedy chanting as a priority and as a matter of urgency.”

As a result of their victory, United moved into second place in the Premier League table ahead of Manchester City’s match against Aston Villa.