UEFA have launched an investigation into the alleged racist abuse of Manchester United’s Anthony Elanga. Elanga, 19, was on international duty with Sweden when the incident is alleged to have happened on Tuesday night. The United youngster started for Sweden in their U21 European Championship qualifying fixture against Italy and, while Sweden scored an equaliser deep into stoppage time to ensure the points were shared, the match was marred by the alleged racist incident. In a statement released after the game,
Swedish FA wrote: ” Anthony Elanga has stated after the match that he has been subjected to a racist comment from an opponent in the Italian U21 national team.”
UEFA have now responded to the incident, confirming that they’ve launched an investigation.
UEFA statement read: “In accordance with Article 31(4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding the incidents.”
Sweden’s U21s’ manager Claes Eriksson commented on the alleged abuse earlier this week.
Claes Erikkson said: “We have told our version of what happened and have submitted an oral report to both the referees and the match delegates. We are now waiting for feedback through the match report and the referee report. Once they have arrived, we decide how to proceed. Safety manager Martin Fredman is also informed of what has happened. No one should have to be exposed to racism, it is completely unacceptable. We all stand behind and support Anthony in this.”
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) have ‘categorically’ denied the allegations.
