Liverpool supporters reportedly were forced to leave Anfield as the stadium was evacuated prior to Monday’s match against Athletic Bilbao. The reigning champion has returned to his home ground for the first time due to consecutive friendly matches against Spanish opponents since the end of last season. However, there was some confusion before kickoff.
The stadium was evacuated about an hour before the game began, according to the Liverpool Echo. Social media images showed a large group of fans standing outside the main stand and were asked to leave their seats. It remains to be seen whether the kickoff is delayed as a result of the evacuation.
One video heard a public announcement announcing stadium speakers in the background. “Be careful, be careful. Leave the building immediately.”
The alarm also sounded to help supporters get out of the stadium. According to El Coreo, those asked to leave their seats were allowed to return in about 20 minutes.
The opportunity marked Liverpool’s first game at Anfield since the death of the Diogo Jota and Matchday programme, and was full of respect for the former Reds Man.
In a message to supporters, manager Arne Slot wrote:
“We can’t imagine the pain they’ve been going through, and the club will continue to give them all the support they have in the future.
“Diogo’s death had a huge impact on us all, but what was so important was the love and care shown by the world of football, especially the Liverpool FC community.
“On Anfield, the Axa Training Center, Preston North End and recent tours of Hong Kong and Japan, I really felt what Diogo means to everyone and how fans are together.”
“I would also like to mention the strength and courage of the players here. I’ve found them in one of the toughest positions I can imagine.
“But the way they came together and the way they did themselves on and off the pitch is a credit to them and this football club. We really can’t ask the boys more and I’m very proud of them all.”
