Liverpool has called for an "urgent and thorough" investigation after their under-18s team left the pitch during two games in Germany, following allegations of racial abuse directed at one of their players.
The first incident occurred during their opening match of the Bundesliga Cup youth tournament against Hoffenheim on Friday. The team walked off the pitch after the player reported being targeted with racial abuse.
The second incident took place on Saturday during a game against Frankfurt, leading the team to leave the field in protest once again, resulting in the match being abandoned.
Liverpool issued a statement confirming that a member of their under-18s team reported racial abuse by an opponent during the tournament at Schwäbisch Hall. The player immediately informed the match official, his teammates, and the coaching staff. As a result, Liverpool's management team decided to stop the game and leave the pitch.
In the second incident, the same player reported abuse again, prompting the team to leave the pitch for a second time. Liverpool praised the player's decision to report the incidents, commending his maturity.
Frankfurt's sporting director, Timmo Hardung, addressed the incident, stating that, after speaking with the accused player, they believe it was a "misunderstanding" and ruled out racism. Hardung emphasized that racism has no place in football and that they take such accusations seriously.
Both Hoffenheim, Frankfurt, and the Bundesliga Cup have been contacted for further comment.
