London (AFP) – British police are investigating an alleged racially aggravated assault on Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling before the Premier League leaders’ victory against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.
“On Sunday 17 December 2017, police were made aware that a 23-year-old man had been subject to a racially aggravated assault,” a police spokesman said.
The Sunday Telegraph newspaper reported that Sterling was apparently kicked and racially abused as he arrived at City’s Etihad Campus on Saturday morning before their 4-1 win over Tottenham, during which the attacker scored twice.
The report said a man appeared to be waiting for the 23-year-old England international as he arrived at the training ground to prepare for the game.
The newspaper said it is understood that Sterling got out of his car to ask what the problem was but was then kicked in the leg.
City have not commented on the matter and a formal complaint has not yet been lodged but police confirmed they are treating it as “a hate crime”.
“While an official report has not yet been made, enquiries will be carried out and officers are treating it as a hate crime.”
Sterling has been one of the stars of City’s record-breaking season, scoring 15 goals in all competitions as Pep Guardiola’s side have romped clear at the top of the Premier League and racked up 16 straight league wins.
200+ Channels With Sports & News
- Starting price: $33/mo. for fubo Latino Package
- Watch Premier League, Women’s World Cup, Euro 2024 & Gold Cup
The New Home of MLS
- Price: $14.99/mo. for MLS Season Pass
- Watch every MLS game including playoffs & Leagues Cup
Many Sports & ESPN Originals
- Price: $10.99/mo. (or get ESPN+, Hulu & Disney+ for $14.99/mo.)
- Features Bundesliga, LaLiga, Championship, & FA Cup
2,000+ soccer games per year
- Price: $5.99/mo
- Features Champions League, Serie A, Europa League & Brasileirāo
175 Premier League Games & PL TV
- Starting price: $5.99/mo. for Peacock Premium
- Watch 175 exclusive EPL games per season