Leeds United supporters inside Elland Road were left furious on Saturday night when their Premier League clash against Manchester City was halted to allow Muslim players involved in the game to break their Ramadan fast.
Pre-Agreed Stoppage Sparks Controversy
The match was paused after 12 minutes as part of a pre-agreed measure designed to assist those players who are observing the holy month of Ramadan, which involves fasting from dawn to sunset. Ramadan runs from February 17 to March 19 this year, affecting several athletes across the football league.
Fan Reaction at Elland Road
As Manchester City stars Rayan Ait-Nouri, Omar Marmoush, and Rayan Cherki headed over to the touchline to refuel with drinks and snacks, a message explaining the stoppage appeared on the stadium screens. It read: 'As tonight's match takes place during the holy period of Ramadan, play has been paused briefly to allow players to break their fast.'
However, this gesture of inclusivity was met with immediate disapproval from a significant section of the home crowd. Loud boos rang out around Elland Road, and City's players were also subjected to whistles as they approached the sidelines.
Additional Muslim Players Involved
Abdukodir Khusanov, who was named as a substitute by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, is also Muslim and observing Ramadan. This highlights the growing number of players in top-flight football who participate in religious practices during the season, raising questions about how sports events accommodate diverse faiths.
The incident has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, with some praising the league's efforts to support players' religious commitments, while others argue it disrupts the flow of the game. The reaction at Elland Road underscores the tensions that can arise when traditional sporting norms intersect with modern cultural and religious considerations.
