Newcastle United Blasts Marseille Police Over 'Indiscriminate' Fan Assaults

In a truly alarming turn of events, Newcastle United Football Club has officially accused French police of what they describe as the "indiscriminate assault" of their loyal fans in Marseille. It’s a pretty shocking claim, particularly when you consider these supporters weren't even there for the match that caused all the tension!

The incident unfolded on Thursday night in Marseille’s picturesque Old Port area. Now, here's the kicker: while the city was indeed buzzing with a high-stakes Europa League clash between local side Olympique Marseille and Dutch club Feyenoord, the Newcastle fans present were simply enjoying a long holiday weekend. They were just, you know, being tourists, soaking up the atmosphere, perhaps grabbing a drink or two.

However, according to a powerful statement released by Newcastle, their fans found themselves caught in a terrifying situation. The club alleges that French police, in their efforts to manage the crowd, used some incredibly heavy-handed tactics. We're talking baton charges, the deployment of tear gas, and even flash-ball shots. Can you imagine just being out for an evening and suddenly being subjected to that?

The consequences, sadly, were very real. Several Newcastle supporters reportedly sustained injuries, with at least one suffering a broken arm and others enduring head injuries. It's a deeply troubling picture, suggesting a complete lack of discretion or targeting by the authorities, hitting anyone in their path, regardless of their involvement in any perceived disorder.

Newcastle United has made it clear they are not letting this slide. The club is actively working with the relevant authorities – that's French, British, and even UEFA – to get to the bottom of what exactly transpired. Their priority, of course, is to ensure the safety and well-being of their traveling fanbase, and frankly, to demand some answers and accountability.

It’s worth noting that Marseille has been a hotbed of tension around football matches lately. There have been prior clashes involving Feyenoord fans and local ultras, creating a rather volatile environment. While policing difficult crowds is undeniably a challenging task, especially in a city with a history of football-related violence, the accusation of indiscriminate assault against innocent bystanders is a very serious one indeed. It really makes you wonder about the protocols and training in place, doesn’t it?

This incident also brings back memories of other criticisms leveled against French police regarding their crowd control methods, particularly when it comes to football supporters. For Newcastle and its fans, this isn't just a news story; it's a stark reminder of the potential dangers when traveling abroad, even when simply trying to enjoy a holiday.