Aston Villa Bars Maccabi Tel Aviv Supporters from Europa League Clash

On Thursday Aston Villa revealed that authorities have ruled out any Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from the upcoming Europa League encounter next month citing worries about public safety.

Villa issued a statement noting they were told no visiting fans can come to the UEFA Europa League game against Maccabi Tel Aviv scheduled for Thursday November 6 as per guidance from the Safety Advisory Group (SAG).

The SAG oversees the safety approvals for all fixtures at Villa Park.

The announcement further explained that the SAG has officially notified both the club and UEFA that no away supporters will be allowed at Villa Park for this game.

West Midlands Police informed the SAG of safety issues beyond the stadium area and challenges in managing possible demonstrations during the event.

Villa mentioned ongoing discussions with the Israeli team and regional officials prioritising the well being of match goers and nearby community members in all choices.

Area law enforcement on Thursday deemed the match high risk after a detailed review.

A police representative stated this ruling draws from recent reports and past events such as the violent confrontations and bias crimes during the 2024 UEFA Europa League clash between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam.

The previous Novembers game featuring the Dutch club Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv involved assaults on Israeli fans in Amsterdam through drive by incidents.

These assaults marked the peak of two days of disturbances that included Maccabi supporters singing anti Arab chants damaging a cab and removing a Palestinian banner.