Aston Villa warn fans over political messaging ahead of Maccabi Tel Aviv clash | OneFootball

Aston Villa have issued a stern warning to supporters ahead of next month’s Europa League tie with Maccabi Tel Aviv, urging them not to display political symbols or messages inside Villa Park, BBC Sport has reported. The Premier League club said any breach of UEFA’s regulations would lead to “immediate ejection and a stadium ban.”

The move comes amid mounting tensions surrounding the fixture, which has been classified as “high risk” by West Midlands Police. Last week, Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group announced that Maccabi fans would not be permitted to attend, citing security concerns. The UK government subsequently condemned the decision, offering to fund additional policing to allow visiting supporters to travel.

However, Maccabi Tel Aviv have since declined their ticket allocation, citing a “toxic atmosphere” and fears for their fans’ safety. The Israeli club’s statement noted that the politicisation of the fixture had made safe attendance “very much in doubt.”

Villa’s updated ticketing policy restricts sales to supporters with prior purchase histories and prohibits reselling, while the club also confirmed the away end will remain vacant.

GFN | Finn Entwistle