Newcastle United have condemned racist abuse sent to Bruno Guimarães and Joe Willock on social media following Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the Premier League.
“Our message is clear. There is no room for racism in football or society,” the club said in a statement.
“We are providing support to Bruno and Joe and will work with relevant authorities and social media platforms to identify those responsible so that they can be held to account.”
Bruno escaped a booking appearing to lead with his forearm onto the head of Arsenal midfielder Jorginho in a tense and fractious contest at St James’ Park.
Willock, a former Arsenal player, was involved in the controversial goal when he kept the ball in play near the corner flag, with VAR unable to determine whether the ball had gone out completely or not.
The 24-year-old posted screenshots of the racist abuse he received on Instagram with the caption: “It’s a game of football mate, no need for this. Instagram, please find this person.”
Anti-discriminatory body Kick It Out said the two players were “targeted with disgusting racial abuse”, adding that social media companies must offer better safeguards and cannot escape without consequences.
“Sadly, this has been an almost weekly occurrence this season, and the costs on players’ mental health are huge,” Kick It Out said.
“That is why the new Online Safety Act must click into gear as soon as possible so that players are better protected.”
The Premier League and Arsenal also condemned the discrimination the players suffered, with the north London club saying they would take a “zero tolerance approach.”
“We will apply the strongest possible action to anyone we can identify sending hateful messages,” Arsenal said.
Anthony Gordon scored the winner after VAR also checked for a foul and offside to hand Arsenal their first league defeat of the season.
