MARSEILLE have been blasted for not taking the knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement before their Champions League clash against Manchester City.
As the Citizens starting XI took the knee after referee Tobias Stieler blew the whistle to start the game, the Ligue 1 side stood around the centre circle.
Players, coaches and other staff members have all been taking the knee in England to show their support in the fight against racism.
Triggered by the death of George Floyd in May, the gesture has been seen as a symbol in the global fight against racism.
However, French teams have not adopted the pre-match ritual.
According to reports in France, Marseille gathered round the centre circle to hold a minute’s silence for Samuel Paty – a teacher who was murdered in a terrorist attack last week.
Marseille’s Twitter account suggested the players showed their support through “unity and respect”.
Olympique de Marseille is the club of anti-racism.
The OM players join the approach of the Manchester City players, demonstrating unity and respect for this fight. pic.twitter.com/LHGteYOcho
— Olympique de Marseille
(@OM_English) October 27, 2020
However, some fans were left furious with Andre Villas-Boas’ side for not taking a knee in support towards the Black Lives Matter movement.
One fan tweeted: “Marseille players refused to take a knee in tonight’s game vs Man City. Absolutely disgraceful.”
Another commented: “Marseille refuse to take the knee. Poor show!”
A third added: “Marseille should be ashamed for not taking the knee.”
Meanwhile one stated: “F*** Marseille not taking the knee.”
Manchester City emerged as 3-0 victors away at Marseille to make it two wins out of two in Group C.
Summer signing Ferran Torres opened the scoring in the 18th minute, with Ilkay Gundogan and Raheem Sterling finding the back of the net late on.
