A 47-year-old man has entered a not guilty plea after being accused of racially abusing Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo during the opening match of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Mark Mogan, a resident of Liverpool, was charged with a Racially Aggravated Section 5 Public Order offense following the incident at Anfield on August 15. The trial is set to commence on April 22, 2026, with Semenyo expected to testify, according to the Liverpool Magistrates' Court.
Mogan, who appeared in court without legal representation, only spoke to confirm his identity and enter his plea. The court granted him bail with strict conditions, including no direct or indirect contact with Semenyo and a prohibition from mentioning him on social media. Additionally, Mogan is barred from attending any regulated football grounds.
The incident occurred in the 29th minute of the match when Semenyo reported being racially abused by a spectator. Referee Anthony Taylor halted the game, and a man was subsequently removed from the stadium. Both Liverpool manager Arne Slot and Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola were briefed by Taylor regarding the incident.
Sky Sports commentators Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher condemned the incident, with Neville describing it as "despicable." Kick It Out CEO Hollie Varney praised Semenyo's response and called for consistent measures to address such incidents.
Semenyo, who scored two goals in the match before Liverpool secured a 4-2 victory, expressed gratitude for the support he received. He highlighted the unity displayed by the football community and reiterated his commitment to the sport.
The Premier League and representatives from both teams strongly condemned the incident, vowing to investigate further. Semenyo took to social media to thank his teammates, opponents, and officials for their support, emphasizing the positive aspects of the football community.
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