By Matthew Koch
The riots in Malmö will keep Union busy for a while. Uefa announced that both clubs will be investigated after the Europa League game.
Host Malmö has to answer for, among other things, setting off fireworks and throwing objects. Added to this is the provocation with banners. Presumably, this means showing Pro-Hertha banners like “Berlin ist Blau Weiss”. Malmö and Hertha supporters maintain a fan friendship.
Union also gets Uefa mail. Some of the more than 1000 people in the guest block were mainly to blame for the 24-minute game interruption. Union is accused of burning off pyrotechnics, throwing objects (including seat shells) and damaging property in the stadium.
How is the club reacting? Head of communications Christian Arbeit (48): “First we are waiting for the official letter from Uefa. This includes deadlines.”
While Union is facing new investigations, the fine for the massive burning of pyrotechnics at the European Cup game on September 15 in Braga (0-1) is still pending.
The fan base is in turmoil. The club will sit down with the leading ultras who lost control of the curve in Malmo. Shooting rockets into adjacent blocks and onto the field and throwing firecrackers are actually taboo for Union fans.
From Ultra circles, tickets were also passed on to Cottbus and Gladbach Ultras, while thousands of long-time Union fans went away empty-handed. This also enrages the registered Union fan clubs. They should also be interested in a timely round of talks with the club.