Arsenal investigate antisemitic posts from account allegedly belonging to an academy kit man

Arsenal have opened an investigation after a series of antisemitic messages were posted on social media that allegedly came from an account in the name of a member of the club’s academy staff.

An account on social media platform X, under the name of Arsenal academy kit man Mark Bonnick, posted a string of messages in online conversations with Jewish people.

The Times, who first reported Arsenal’s investigation, state how a message on December 4, read: “Hamas offered to release all hostages in October. Zionist Israel refused. Persecution complex.”

One post from December 7 reads: “Why should they be protected any more than any other community? Some see this as the problem Jewish communities thinking they should be put before others.”

There were also references to “Jewish supremacy” and “ethnic cleansing” in the middle of an online discussion about the Israel-Gaza war.

Arsenal confirmed on Wednesday evening that they have now opened an investigation into the matter.

“We are investigating this matter in line with our internal policies and procedures,” the club said in a statement. “Arsenal stands against all forms of abuse and discrimination.”

The Times report that Arsenal have received complaints from one of their supporter groups, while the Football Association (FA) could also investigate. As of Wednesday night, the account on X had been deactivated.