Young Boys apologise for fan violence at Villa
BIRMINGHAM, England – Young Boys manager Gerardo Seoane apologised after the Swiss club’s supporters were involved in violent incidents during Thursday’s 2-1 Europa League loss against Aston Villa, a match halted briefly following clashes in the away section.
The tie was paused for around five minutes in the first half after objects were thrown towards Villa forward Donyell Malen, who scored twice and sustained a cut to his head amid the disturbance. Police and stewards intervened as some Young Boys fans attempted to move towards the pitch, leading to confrontations near the away end. The visitors’ captain, Loris Benito, approached the stand in an effort to calm the situation.
Seoane acknowledged the behaviour of the travelling supporters and expressed regret, though suggested celebrations from Villa players may have contributed to tensions.
“Maybe it was a small provocation, I don’t know,” Seoane said. “Our fans could have taken this as a provocation, but they should not react so angrily. We apologise. This is not the way we want to act as guests.”
Seoane said his understanding was that spectators moved towards the railing to speak with players, but that police interpreted the movement as an attempt to access the pitch, triggering further disorder. The Young Boys coach described the scenes as “a pity for everybody,” adding: “Football is emotional but no one wins in a situation like this.”
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery offered a brief response when asked about the incident, describing the scenes as unnecessary and calling for greater respect between both sets of supporters. “We need respect for both sides,” he said. “It is not necessary to get a moment like we had today.”
Emery praised Malen, whose double took his season tally to six goals. The Netherlands international has become increasingly influential in Villa’s attack, with Emery highlighting his tactical discipline and growing physical sharpness. “He’s progressively getting better,” said Emery. “He is helping us and really performing very well.”
Joel Monteiro scored a late consolation for Young Boys, but the match will be remembered primarily for the disruption in the stands. The incident is likely to prompt further scrutiny from UEFA and raises wider questions around stadium security and supporter conduct in European competition.