BBC: Man who racially discriminated against Semeno is detained for disrupting public order and will be tried

 12:55am, 17 August 2025

BBC reported that a man was arrested for racial discrimination against Bournemouth player Semeno in the Premier League season opener.

Friday's game was suspended in the 29th minute as Semenho reported the matter to the referee. Merseyside police said a 47-year-old man from Liverpool was confirmed and taken away from Anfield Stadium. The man was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of racial discrimination against public order and was detained for trial. The game recovered four minutes after reporting a racial discrimination incident, and Semenho scored two goals for Bournemouth, but the team lost 2-4 to Liverpool. Bournemouth captain Adam Smith said in an interview with Sky Sports: "This shows how he is, he can report to the referee and continue playing. Liverpool players are very supportive of Anthony and our entire team."

Semenho issued an Instagram statement on Saturday, saying: "Last night's experience at Anfield will always be remembered, not because of someone's words, but because the entire football family is united. Thanks to my Bournemouth teammates for their support at that moment, thanks to the true character shown by Liverpool players and fans, and thanks to the professional handling of Premier League officials. Football showed its best side at the critical moment."

The Premier League said it will also investigate the matter. The FA added: "Events of this nature have no place in our game, and we will work closely with the game officials, clubs and relevant authorities to find out the facts and ensure proper action is taken."

anti-discrimination organization Kick It Out said they "stand with Anthony and highly praised him for his courageous voice and scoring two goals after such an unsettling incident". They also praised the referee Anthony Taylor and his team for their quick and decisive actions.

Liverpool coach Slott said the incident "had made the game a little disappointed because our fans were great, especially the tribute to Jota". Before the game, the audience sang "You Never Walk Alone", followed by a silence ceremony, with fans holding up mosaic puzzles in the stands with "DJ20" and "AS30".