There have been bust-ups between fans of Athletic Bilbao and other clubs in some of this season’s Europa League matches
Police in Bilbao are beefing up security protocols ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Europa League semi-final first leg between Athletic Club and Manchester United at San Mames Stadium.
The decision comes after disturbances in previous Europa League games that Athletic Club Bilbao have featured in. Rangers and Athletic Club supporters clashed after the quarter-final second-leg game between the two clubs earlier in April, which Rangers lost 2-0 and exited the competition. Up to 13 people were reported to be injured, according to GOAL.
There were also clashes in Rome between Athletic and Roma fans in the round of 16. The authorities are eager to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the semi-final. The Minister of Culture and spokesperson of the Spanish Government, Bingen Zupiria, told the fans that “we want the match to be a celebration where normality prevails”.
Local authorities, including the Mayor of Bilbao Juan Mari Aburto, have announced that there will be a comprehensive security operation by the police.
Just under 3,000 Manchester United travelling fans are expected to show up in Bilbao. Authorities will aim to ensure that there are no bust-ups between some of these fans and the Athletic Club supporters.
Zupiria wants the home supporters to be disciplined and maintain a good image of the club and the city.
“Athletic can show their worth on the field,” he said, “but the fans can also show what they’re made of.”
