Scandal in the Premier League! The former Manchester United player, investigated by the Police after allegedly spitting at opposing fans
Article by Cosmin Nistor – Published Monday, October 20, 2025 21:29 / Updated Monday, October 20, 2025 22:03
Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri (22) is being investigated by Lancashire Police and the FA after several Leeds United fans claimed the player spat in their direction during Burnley's 2-0 win at Turf Moor on Saturday.
The incident reportedly took place in the second half, after Mejbri entered the field in the 83rd minute. According to the Daily Mail, several fans in the away sector accused the Tunisian midfielder of spitting in the stands.
Complaint filed by Leeds United fans
In an official statement, the Police confirmed that they are working with the Burnley club to establish the facts:
Lancashire Police are aware of an alleged incident involving a Burnley player during the second half of their Premier League match with Leeds United. We are currently working with the club to establish the exact circumstances.
– official release
Burnley have yet to comment on the situation and the FA is yet to decide whether to open a disciplinary inquiry.
Police are investigating an allegation of spitting against Burnley's Hannibal Mejbri during the second half of Saturday's Premier League match against Leeds United.
The 22-year-old was an 83rd-minute substitute at Turf Moor, a game which Burnley won 2-0.
After the match, news… pic.twitter.com/y92oHGwA3g
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) October 20, 2025
What punishment does Mejbri risk if he is found guilty
In FA regulations, spitting at an opponent or spectators is classified as “serious conduct”, an offense punishable by a minimum six-match ban.
In more serious cases, criminal sanctions can also be applied, if the act is considered a form of aggression.
Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg told the Leeds News:
“If he is found to have spat at fans, Hannibal will be banned for at least three matches, but the punishment could be much higher depending on the FA's decision.”
Other similar incidents in English football
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Jonny Evans and Papiss Cisse (2015) – banned for a total of 13 matches for spitting at each other;
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Arthur Masuaku (2018) – 6 matches for spitting on an opponent;
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El-Hadji Diouf (2003) – fined and suspended for spitting at a Celtic fan; he was later also charged with assault.
Who is Hannibal Mejbri?
The 22-year-old Tunisian midfielder is a product of Manchester United's academy (2019-2024), once considered one of the most promising youngsters in English football.
Priced at 12 million euros, Mejbri played for Paris FC, AS Monaco, Birmingham City, Sevilla and from the summer of 2024 he plays for Burnley.
For the Tunisian national team, he has 37 caps, one goal and two assists.
