One arrested after clashes near Mestalla before Valencia v Barcelona | OneFootball

A 36-year-old man has been arrested in Valencia on suspicion of public disorder and assaulting police during disturbances around Mestalla on 23 May, before Valencia v Barcelona, the National Police said in a statement.

Trouble began as the Valencia team bus passed along Avenida de Suecia, shortly after a demonstration organised by LIBERTAD VCF had ended around 19:00.

A large group lit flares and threw glass bottles and beer cans at officers near the Plaza de la Afición. Police formed a security line to stop more radical fans mixing with supporters entering the stadium.

Violence escalated as chairs and bins from bar terraces were hurled at officers, prompting a reinforced cordon and containment and dispersal measures to restore order.

One officer suffered an arm injury after being struck by a glass bottle. The unrest led to running, pushing and falls among fans, putting people and property at risk.

The detainee is alleged to have been among the most active participants, encouraging others to confront officers, and had previously been sanctioned under Law 19/2007 on violence, racism, xenophobia and intolerance in sport.

The investigation remains open and further arrests have not been ruled out.

Source: AS