Mikel Arteta said that an Arsenal player was subjected to alleged racist abuse by a Leeds supporter during his team’s 4-1 victory at Elland Road on Saturday.
Referee Andre Marriner brought the game to a halt and walked over to the touchline in the 33rd minute with the visitors 2-0 up after being alerted to an incident by Arsenal substitute Rob Holding.
When Marriner returned to the pitch, he was asked what had happened by Leeds midfielder Mateus Klich, who after being informed of what had reportedly taken place, shook his head.
At half-time, Sky Sports presenter Kelly Cates stated that Arsenal had made an allegation of racist abuse from a Leeds fan in the crowd, which was verified by Arteta after the game.
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Arteta added: “[I am] very disappointed because we have done so much in football to try and avoid that. But it’s a single person and I don’t think that merits a full stadium to pay the price.
“It was a single incident, it has to be reported, it was reported and now the authorities will have to work with the clubs to try to understand what happened.”
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Marcelo Bielsa, meanwhile, was irked by the line of questioning from Sky Sports presenter Patrick Davidson.
When Davidson asked “how much do you condemn it [the allegation of racist abuse]?” Bielsa responded, via his translator: “It is incredible that you ask me this question. What can I answer you?
“Of course, I am against all acts of discrimination.”
Gabriel Martinelli (twice), Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were Arsenal’s goalscorers, while Raphinha netted a consolation from the penalty spot for Leeds.
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