Police launch investigation after Everton striker claims Arsenal fans 'attacked' friends in shocking scenes

Barry's social media post claimed the incident occurred towards the conclusion of Arsenal's 2-0 victory, with Viktor Gyokeres breaking the deadlock in the 89th minute before Max Dowman added a second in stoppage time.

In his Instagram story, Barry expressed his frustration at the situation.

He wrote: "This kind of behaviour is not acceptable in a stadium. I bring my friends to enjoy a game, and it gets ruined by a few silly people.

"Football should be a place where everyone feels safe and respected.

"This type of attitude has no place in the game and is simply not tolerated in football.

"My friends and the people who were attacked had to be escorted by the Arsenal club's security staff as well as the police because of fears of retaliation from our supporters."

A Metropolitan Police spokesman confirmed that officers and stewards attended the scene.

No serious injuries were reported, and no arrests were made.

The force confirmed that enquiries remain ongoing as they work alongside both clubs to identify individuals involved in the incident.

Merseyside Police's dedicated Everton matchday account posted on X that they were aware of footage circulating online depicting an altercation in the away section towards the end of the fixture, confirming their collaboration with the Met on the investigation.

Witnesses or anyone involved in the incident have been asked to contact Merseyside Police via their X account @MerPolCC, quoting reference 26000206746.

Everton acknowledged the incident in an official statement, which read: "Everton Football Club is aware of an incident involving supporters in the away section at Emirates Stadium and will review the circumstances surrounding it.

"Violent or disorderly behaviour is completely unacceptable and has no place in football. It does not reflect the passionate and loyal support Everton receives both home and away.

"The club will work with the relevant authorities to establish the facts and take any appropriate action."

Barry, who arrived at Goodison Park from Villarreal last summer in a £27million transfer, has netted six goals this campaign, making him joint top scorer for the Toffees.

In a later post, the striker added: "I would like to speak one last time regarding the incident that occurred after the match.

"Some of the information circulating does not reflect reality. Contrary to what has been suggested, I never gave tickets to Arsenal supporters. The people who were present to support me have always followed the clubs I have played for throughout my career, from Beveren to Basel, through Villarreal and now Everton.

"Yesterday, some of them were even wearing an Everton shirt with my name on it."

Barry added: "During the match, they were approached twice by supporters who asked whether they were supporting the opposing team. They clearly stated that this was not the case and that they were there to support me.

"Furthermore, the people visible in some of the videos are not members of my family. They are relatives of another player from the team. Unfortunately, they were confronted by a group of supporters who mistakenly believed they were celebrating Arsenal's goal. The stewards present witnesses the scene, my friends were insulted, how is that even possible?'

He concluded: "I simply want to remind everyone that violence has no place in football, regardless of the circumstances.

"An investigation is currently underway, and I have full confidence in the relevant authorities to establish the facts. Out of respect for this process, I will not make any further comments.'"

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