West Ham have condemned an offensive and divisive chant about Manor Solomon after it was sung by a section of the away support during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Burnley at Turf Moor.
The club said it understands that singing and chanting are a traditional part of the matchday experience, but stressed that support should never cross into division or offence. West Ham also said it expects players, staff, officials and supporters to reflect the club’s values and help ensure the Hammers remain united.
Manor Solomon, a 27-year-old forward who joined West Ham from Tottenham this month for a reported £5m fee, made an immediate impact at Burnley. He scored in the 72nd minute to help secure the point after West Ham had built a 2-0 lead.
Nuno Espírito Santo said he was happy Solomon scored, adding that it would improve his confidence and that he brings very good things to the team. He also described Solomon as a very talented player.
The issue now turns to West Ham’s first Championship home game of the season against Charlton on Saturday. The club said it wants its supporters to back the team loudly, but in a way that reflects the inclusive identity it says has defined West Ham since its formation in 1895 and over the 131 years that followed.
West Ham’s response
In its statement, West Ham said it is immensely proud of being an inclusive football club and linked that identity to its location in one of the most diverse and multicultural areas of London. The club said equality, equity, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of what it stands for.
West Ham added that it wants support that is something to be proud of and “the envy of all who face us.” The message was clear: sing for the club, sing for the players in claret and blue, but do not repeat a chant that creates division or causes offence among fellow fans.
For Solomon, the focus on the pitch will be on building from a positive debut moment. For West Ham, the immediate challenge is making sure the conversation around Saturday’s home match is about football rather than another off-field controversy.
