BSC Young Boys manager Gerardo Seoane has issued a public apology following the disgraceful conduct of the Swiss club's travelling supporters during Thursday's Europa League clash at Villa Park.
The match, which ended in a 2-1 victory for Aston Villa, was marred by ugly scenes of violence from the away section, forcing police and stewards to intervene on multiple occasions.
Violence Erupts After Villa Goals
The trouble began after Villa's Dutch forward, Donyell Malen, opened the scoring with a powerful header past Young Boys goalkeeper Marvin Keller. In response, a section of the visiting fans pelted Malen and his teammates with objects from the stands.
The situation escalated dramatically after Malen doubled his tally for the night. Despite a direct appeal for calm from their own captain, Loris Benito, the Young Boys fans turned on each other. The disorder saw drinks and seats, which were ripped from the stands, being thrown as the conflict spilled over.
Seoane's Apology and 'Provocation' Comments
In his post-match interview, manager Gerardo Seoane addressed the incidents. While offering a clear apology, he also suggested that the goal celebrations may have been a factor.
"First, I think it's normal when you score a goal that you want to celebrate with your team-mates," Seoane stated. "Maybe it was a small provocation, I don't know. Our fans maybe took this like a provocation, but I think this is part of football; our fans should not react so heavily."
He described the chain of events that led to the police intervention, explaining that the referee had asked Benito to speak with the supporters. "Some supporters came down to have a talk, and the police reacted like they would jump into the pitch, but it was not their intention... they reacted a bit early."
Seoane concluded with a firm apology: "It's a pity for everybody... for throwing the object... and for sure we apologise. We don't feel good. The way our supporters are normally, it is not how we want to act when we are guests somewhere. Everybody loses with this situation."
Emotions and Regrets
The manager further reflected on the role of emotions in football, acknowledging an unwritten rule about provoking opposition fans. "I think nobody provokes with a purpose," he said, attributing Malen's actions to the "joy of scoring."
In a candid admission, Seoane noted that the lengthy stoppage in play caused by the fan unrest actually benefited his team, who were "a bit in trouble in the first half," but he was quick to add that "this is not a good excuse" for the unacceptable behaviour.
The incident at Villa Park on November 27 has cast a shadow over an otherwise thrilling European night, leaving the Swiss club to reflect on the damaging actions of its supporters.
