English police, unprecedented security measures at the match that has already caused a huge scandal

Ashley Davis1 week ago

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Article by Maria Olteanu – Published Tuesday, 04 November 2025, 12:53 / Updated Tuesday, 04 November 2025 12:53

The English police have taken unprecedented security measures for the match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League, scheduled for Thursday, the British press informs. Local law enforcement has mobilized 700 police officers, drones, mounted police, dogs and anti-riot units, who will have to ensure the peaceful conduct of the meeting, at which the Israelis will have no fans in the stands.

Aston Villa – Maccabi Tel Aviv, in the 4th stage of the single group of the Europa League, is played on Thursday evening, November 6, from 22:00

The match has been classified as high risk due to the conflict in Gaza and West Midlands Police, anticipating protests and possible public order problems, have asked that Israeli supporters be kept off Villa Park. UEFA approved the request, but many voices opposed it, considering that the decision taken was a wrong one.

Even without Israeli supporters, law enforcement is preparing security measures for this match, according to sportal.bg.

Security measures like never before at a match without a guest gallery

The police request comes amid fears of possible incidents between supporters or residents of the city, given that around 30% of Birmingham's population is Muslim.

A no-fly zone will be declared around the “Villa Park” stadium, and the match will be played without the presence of the visiting team's fans.

The scale of the operation is unprecedented, especially for a game that will be played without the supporters of the away team.

These actions of the local authorities received a strong negative reaction and were even harshly criticized by the English Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

“This is the wrong decision. We will not tolerate anti-Semitism on our streets. The role of the police is to ensure that all football fans can enjoy the game without fear of violence or intimidation.” Starmer said.