West Ham United have publicly condemned an offensive and divisive chant about Israel winger Manor Solomon, urging supporters to stop singing it. The chant, which includes an anti-Palestine message, was heard from a section of the away crowd during their Championship match against Burnley on Sunday, which ended in a 2-2 draw.
Club statement urges unity and respect
In a statement, West Ham said: “We understand that singing and chanting is a traditional and deeply embedded part of the matchday experience. We encourage our supporters to sing loud and proud about their football club and the players wearing the claret and blue shirt, but never in a way that creates division or causes offence among fellow fans.”
The club emphasised its inclusive identity, noting: “We are immensely proud of the fact that West Ham United has always been an inclusive football club, ever since our formation in 1895 … in the 131 years that have followed, that identity has evolved with the club located in one of the most diverse and multicultural areas of London, always open and welcoming to those who become members of the West Ham family and share the values we cherish.”
Solomon scores on debut
Manor Solomon, 27, scored West Ham’s second goal on his debut at Turf Moor. The winger moved from Tottenham this month for a reported £5 million fee, having previously played for Fulham and Leeds in England. West Ham held a 2-0 lead after Solomon’s 72nd-minute strike, but Burnley’s Zian Flemming scored twice, including an injury-time equaliser.
West Ham manager Nuno Espírito Santo told BBC Radio London he was impressed with Solomon’s first outing: “I was happy he scored. It will improve his confidence and he brings very good things [to us]. He is a very talented player.”
Club calls for positive support
West Ham’s statement continued: “Equality, equity, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the club and we believe in the power of football to unite and bring people together. We expect those who represent the club – be that players, staff, officials or supporters – to share those values and ensure that, regardless of individual backgrounds or beliefs, we are as our name says: United. Let’s make sure our support is something to be proud of and the envy of all who face us.”
The club urged fans to drop the chant ahead of their first Championship home game of the season against Charlton on Saturday.
