Police have charged a 17-year-old boy in connection with chants about the death of Sir Bobby Charlton which were filmed at a Manchester City match. Greater Manchester Police investigated footage from the game on the day the Manchester United legend’s death was announced. The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with a public order offence and will appear before magistrates in November. He has been released on bail with conditions to not appear at any regulated football matches. A 14-year-old boy was voluntarily interviewed in connection with the chanting and will be dealt with out of court.
On Sunday, Manchester City’s manager Pep Guardiola condemned the “vile chanting” which followed Sir Bobby’s death. He said fans who sang offensive chants did not represent the club, which had “huge respect for Man United… and especially for Sir Bobby”. Manchester City announced on Thursday that two minors had been banned from home and away games for “vile chanting”.
Sir Bobby, a key member of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning team, died aged 86 on Saturday. If found guilty, the 17-year-old boy faces a fine or imprisonment. A conviction for a public order offence could also have implications for his future employment and travel prospects. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of offensive chanting at football matches, and the need for clubs and authorities to take strong action against those responsible
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