West Yorkshire Police have confirmed they are working with Leeds United to investigate a ‘racist comment’ made to Willy Gnonto on social media.
The club released a statement on Monday revealing that they had been made aware of a comment made towards the Italian international and vowing to support him.
“A racist comment made on social media towards Willy Gnonto has been brought to our attention,” said the statement.
“Leeds United condemn this action in the strongest possible way. An investigation is now under way and the police have been notified. Racism will not be tolerated at Leeds United. The club will support Willy and anyone else connected to our club who experiences racism or any form of discrimination.”
The police have been made aware.#lufc https://t.co/yUFahSjSKE
— Leeds United News (@LeedsUnitedYEP) August 21, 2023
The police are now involved and confirmed to the YEP that they are working alongside Leeds in the matter.
A spokesperson said: “We have been notified by Leeds United of a racist comment made on social media towards Willy Gnonto and we are working with the club to investigate the matter. We will always take reports of hate crime seriously and do everything we can to support victims and take positive action against offenders.”
Gnonto is currently at odds with the club over his desire to leave. The teenager told manager Daniel Farke he could not play in the game against Birmingham City and a written transfer request was submitted on his behalf on Friday night as Leeds prepared to face West Brom at Elland Road. Whites supporters made their disapproval for his actions clear in the form of chants as the match began. The club is yet to make comment on the transfer request but the YEP understands the decision not to sell Gnonto in this transfer window still stood in the immediate aftermath of Friday’s events.
