Ahead of their big Premier League clash at Anfield on Sunday, Liverpool and Manchester United managers Jurgen Klopp and Eric ten Hag called for an end to the ‘tragedy chants’.
The bitter rivals issued a joint statement designed to show unity on an issue that has shadowed the famous rivalry for decades.
In a heartfelt plea to the fans, both coaches insisted on ending talks related to the tragic events in Munich, Hillsborough and Heysel, urging fans to create a special atmosphere whenever the two sides meet.
Klopp insisted that fans must maintain their passion but overcome the hate and end the disgusting abuse that entails the tragic loss of human life.
The German said: “One of the main reasons why the rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United is so special is that it is so intense and no one should want to change this.
But at the same time, when the rivalry gets too intense it can go to places that are not good for anyone, and we don’t need that.”
The Liverpool manager continued: “We want the noise; we want the occasion to be partisan and we want the atmosphere to be electric. What we don’t want is anything that goes beyond that and this especially applies to the kind of chants that have no place in football. If we can keep the passion and lose the poison, it will be much better for everyone.
Ten Hag echoes Klopp’s pleas
United boss ten Hag claimed the rivalry between the two sides is one of the biggest in the world and urged lines to be drawn when it comes to the tragedy. The Dutchman also stated that it is unacceptable to use the loss of life in connection with any tragedy to taunt rival supporters and said it is time to stop.
“It is unacceptable to use the loss of life, in connection with any tragedy, to score points, and it is time it stopped. Those responsible tarnish not only the reputation of our clubs but also, more importantly, the reputation of themselves, the fans and our great cities.”
“On behalf of myself, our players and our staff, we ask our fans to focus on supporting the team on Sunday and representing our club in the right way.”
Earlier last year, in November, the FA had raised concerns about chants related to the Hillsborough disaster from the two Manchester teams on their visits to Anfield. Later, the Premier League also said that it was treating the issue as a priority and a matter of urgency.
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