Leeds United supporters inside Elland Road were left furious on Saturday night as play was halted in order for Muslim players to break their fasts during Ramadan.
Daniel Farke’s men are in action tonight against Manchester City, who are currently battling Arsenal for Premier League title glory.
Play was halted after roughly 12 minutes, with players from the home side looking surprised.
When a message went up explaining that it was so Muslim stars could break their fast, spectators inside the ground responded by booing and whistling.
Three of the City players went over to break their fast.
Among them was Rayan Cherki, with the forward starting in the absence of Erling Haaland, who misses out through injury.
Rayan Ait-Nouri and Omar Marmoush did the same, with the trio all drinking fluids on the touchline.
Manchester City players broke their fast in Saturday night’s match with Leeds
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The incident was noticed on social media, with those watching from home responding in ther droves.
“Leeds fans booing a break so players can break their fast is… interesting?” said one user.
A second stated: “Leeds classy as ever booing a water break so that players can break their fast.”
Five facts about the Premier League | PA/GETTY/REUTERS/GBNEWS
A third waded in by saying: “Disgraceful booing from Leeds as players break fast.”
The match carries huge signifance for City, with Pep Guardiola’s men knowing victory would move them to within just two points of Mikel Arteta at the top of the Premier League table.
The absence of Haaland is a huge blow, however, with the Norway international producing the goods with his usual consistency this season.
Guardiola, when quizzed on why the 25-year-old was missed, said: “Two days ago in training he had some problems and a little injury. Not a big issue but not ready for today.
“We are without one top striker and we are playing with another top striker.”
On facing a hostile Elland Road, he said: “Elland Road is Elland Road and Daniel [Farke] made [good] last results.
“They went to Stamford Bridge (Chelsea) and Villa Park (Aston Villa) and got [good] results. They have even the boost of the home crowd, but we’re ready for this challenge again.
“In ten years I’ve not been to Elland Road many times. Since Marcelo Bielsa promoted them to the Premier League we’ve been there and it’s an incredible stadium with a good vibe. We know it.
“I think there are a lot of Premier League stadiums that are traditional and really good, Elland Road is one of them.”
