Merseyside Police arrested a 47-year-old man from Liverpool on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after Antoine Semenyo reported racist abuse during Bournemouth’s 4-2 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield on Friday. The suspect was quickly identified inside the stadium, removed by officials, and taken into custody for questioning.
Embed from Getty ImagesMatch Halted After Antoine Semenyo Reports Racism
The Premier League opener was briefly halted in the first half when referee Anthony Taylor reported a complaint from Antoine Semenyo.
Despite the disruption, the Bournemouth forward made a powerful response. He scored twice in the second half and brought his team back into the game. However, Liverpool regained control and secured the victory.
Antoine Semenyo’s Response
On Saturday, Semenyo shared a statement on social media to thank fans, players, and officials for their support.
Last night at Anfield will stay with me forever – not because of one person's words, but because of how the entire football family stood together.
— Antoine Semenyo (@semenyo924) August 16, 2025
To my @afcbournemouth teammates who supported me in that moment, to the @LiverpoolFC players and fans who showed their true… pic.twitter.com/6sNyv3vROK
“Last night at Anfield will stay with me forever,” he wrote. “Not because of one person’s words, but because of how the football family stood together.
“My Bournemouth teammates, the Liverpool players and fans, and the Premier League officials showed real character. Therefore, football revealed its best side when it mattered most.
“Those two goals were my way of speaking the only language that truly matters on the pitch. Moreover, the messages of support remind me why I love this sport. We move forward together.”
Liverpool’s Statement
In addition, Liverpool issued a statement strongly condemning racism. The club stressed that discrimination of any kind has no place in football or society.
Liverpool Football Club is aware of an allegation of racist abuse made during our Premier League game against AFC Bournemouth.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) August 15, 2025
We condemn racism and discrimination in all forms, it has no place in society or football.
Van Dijk Calls Abuse a Disgrace
Meanwhile, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk called the abuse aimed at Semenyo a “disgrace.” He argued that football must focus on educating the next generation.
“These things shouldn’t happen, ever,” he said. “Unfortunately, they still do. Therefore, the only way forward is to confront them and teach young people that racism has no place in football or life.
“I stand fully with Antoine. He knows the club and I are here for him. In fact, whatever support he needs, he will get it.”
