Aston Villa reportedly advised their matchday stewards that they could choose not to work during the club’s upcoming Europa League fixture against Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv, citing potential safety concerns surrounding the event.
The warning followed growing fears about the security situation ahead of the November 6 encounter at Villa Park. The fixture was classified as “high risk” by police due to intelligence suggesting possible disorder. The decision came in the wake of violent clashes involving Maccabi supporters during a 2024 European match in Amsterdam, which resulted in dozens of arrests and widespread condemnation.
Police officials in the West Midlands decided to ban Maccabi fans from attending the match, arguing that they could not guarantee public safety. The ban has prompted national debate, with government departments offering additional support to local police in an attempt to reverse the decision. Birmingham’s safety advisory group is expected to meet in the coming week to review the situation.
An internal message to Aston Villa stewards, reportedly sent in early October, stated that the club recognised the concerns of staff who may feel unsafe working during the match. The communication gave stewards the opportunity to submit a one-off absence request for the fixture, assuring them that their contractual attendance record would not be affected. The decision reflected growing anxiety among event staff after reports of previous fan-related violence.
The earlier disorder linked to Maccabi supporters in Amsterdam included the burning of a Palestinian flag and offensive chants. Police reports from that incident cited a mix of antisemitism, hooliganism, and political tension as factors that contributed to the chaos.
The issue has since escalated beyond local policing, sparking political and community reactions across the country. Some groups have criticised the decision to ban fans as discriminatory, while others argue that safety and public order must take priority.
Aston Villa have stated that they remain in continuous dialogue with Maccabi Tel Aviv and relevant authorities to ensure the safety of all supporters and residents. The club emphasised that security remains their top priority as discussions continue ahead of the high-risk Europa League match.
