Leeds and Arsenal have both released statements condemning racist abuse directed towards Ezgjan Alioski and Nicolas Pépé online after the players clashed during their sides’ goalless draw at Elland Road.
Pépé was sent off after pushing his forehead into that of his opponent, who went down dramatically, in the culmination of a series of niggles between the pair. Since then they have both been targeted on social media and there are also suggestions threats were directed towards Alioski’s family. Their clubs will work with the police in order to ensure the perpetrators are punished.
“The vile abuse directed at Ezgjan Alioski and Nicolas Pépé on social media after yesterday’s Premier League game with Arsenal will not be tolerated by Leeds United,” the Leeds statement read. “We will work closely with the police and the footballing authorities to ensure those responsible are identified and punished.”
Arsenal struck a similar note, saying: “We utterly condemn the vile abuse directed at Nicolas Pépé and Ezgjan Alioski on social media following our match against Leeds United. This is completely unacceptable and we will be working with the police and authorities to do everything we can to trace and prosecute the culprits.”
Pépé has issued an apology for his dismissal on Instagram. The Ivorian international will serve a three-match ban after his red card, missing the Premier League games with Wolves, Spurs and Burnley.
“Yesterday, I have let my team down at a crucial time of the game and there is no excuses for my behaviour,” Pépé wrote. “I am deeply sorry and would like to apologise to the fans, my teammates, my coach and everyone else at the club.”
