Reasons Revealed: Bilbao Files Petition against Man Utd

Athletic Bilbao Files Petition to UEFA After Fan Ejected at Old Trafford During Europa League Semi-Final

Athletic Bilbao has officially filed a petition to UEFA demanding answers and accountability following an incident involving one of their fans during the Europa League semi-final second-leg clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

The Spanish club expressed deep concern after the supporter was reportedly ejected from the stadium for being seated in the away end — a move that has sparked outrage among the club’s fanbase and raised questions about UEFA’s stadium and crowd management policies.

According to reports, the Bilbao fan was peacefully watching the match from the away section when stewards approached and escorted them out of the stadium.

Athletic Bilbao argues that the fan posed no threat and was simply there to support the team. The club views the removal as an act of unfair treatment and a violation of supporters’ rights, especially in a competition overseen by Europe’s governing football body.

In the petition addressed to UEFA, Athletic Bilbao stated:

“We demand a thorough investigation into the events that transpired at Old Trafford. It is essential that all clubs, regardless of stature or country, are treated with equal respect and that the rights of our supporters are safeguarded. Our fan had every right to be in that section and was subjected to unjust treatment.”

The club has asked UEFA to review Manchester United’s matchday protocols and provide a clear explanation of why the incident occurred.

They are also seeking assurances that similar occurrences will be prevented in the future, emphasizing the importance of fan safety and inclusivity during international fixtures.

UEFA has yet to respond to the petition, but the case adds to ongoing discussions surrounding fan treatment, ticket allocations, and stadium safety in high-profile European matches.