Manchester City will take action over “offensive” chants after the death of Sir Bobby Charlton.
Charlton, who played for City’s rivals Manchester United, died on Saturday at the age of 86. Charlton also won the World Cup with England.
City have also moved to condemn the chants, which were heard in parts of the Etihad Stadium during their win over Brighton on Saturday.
A statement from Manchester City said: “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.”
The next domestic game for both United and City is the Manchester derby on 29 October.
GO DEEPER
United legend and World Cup winner Sir Bobby Charlton dies at age of 86
(Photo: Getty Images)
Get all-access to exclusive stories.
Subscribe to The Athletic for in-depth coverage of your favorite players, teams, leagues and clubs. Try a week on us.
