Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has issued a stern warning to the club’s supporters ahead of their clash with Liverpool, urging them to refrain from chanting about sensitive tragedies such as Hillsborough or Heysel. This comes in the wake of distasteful songs sung by a section of United fans during their last encounter with Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Ten Hag emphasized the importance of enjoying the game in the proper spirit and not using it as an excuse for disrespectful behavior. His message was echoed by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who called for both sets of fans to show class and respect during the highly anticipated fixture.
“As such, it is part of my duty to remind every supporter fortunate enough to be at the game that it must be enjoyed in the proper way, and not used as an excuse for abusing rival fans about Hillsborough, Heysel or any other historic tragedies.”
“Whether the clubs meet at Old Trafford or Anfield, all supporters must focus entirely on backing their team and both Jurgen and I trust that we can count on that happening today [on Sunday].”
The issue of inappropriate chanting has plagued this historic rivalry for decades, with incidents of mockery from both sides. Ten Hag and Klopp expressed hope that the upcoming match would be free from such unsavory behavior, emphasizing the significance of maintaining the integrity of one of football’s greatest rivalries.