Antoine Semenyo “froze” after alleged racist abuse at Anfield

Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo “froze” after alleged racist abuse during a Premier League match at Anfield against Bournemouth on 15 August 2025, the court heard. The case was discussed at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court, where prosecutors said Semenyo was preparing to take a throw-in when Mark Mogan, 47, allegedly shouted a racist slur.

Allegations and match moment

Prosecutors said Semenyo was “clearly hurt and upset” and reported the incident to referee Anthony Taylor when play next stopped. Simon Jones told the court Semenyo briefly froze because he “couldn’t believe” what the fan had said.

Clips, witnesses and denial

The court heard Mogan then shouted further abuse; Semenyo did not respond and took the throw-in. Mogan was removed from the stadium at half-time. Two short video clips were shown, with Jones describing him as “agitated and angry”. Witnesses also said Mogan threw chewing gum, hitting the right side of Semenyo’s shorts.

Neil Sherratt, a Liverpool supporter who sits next to Mogan, said he saw him approach from the disabled section of the Main Stand, heard him say something like “hurry up”, and saw Semenyo turn. Another fan, Nicholas Collins, claimed Mogan became “very cocky and brazen” and threatened to assault police if they approached. Mogan denies racially aggravated behaviour and told police the following day he had shouted for Semenyo to hurry up, adding that Semenyo had called him “a cripple”. Semenyo is expected to give evidence via videolink.