Man Utd launch investigation after fans 'pepper sprayed for going to the toilet' by police during Europa League clash at Lyon as veteran-match goer decries 'worst experience in 34 years of European away travel'

Supporters reported vomiting, feeling dizzy and struggling to breathe after a substance was allegedly sprayed at them by police at the end of the Red Devils' 2-2 draw at the Groupama Stadium.

Duncan Drasdo, the CEO of Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST), told the Manchester Evening News: "It was the worst experience in terms of policing and restrictions on freedom in 34 years of European away football travel. It's totally over the top. The host club should not be given licence to host matches if they cannot guarantee the safety of away supporters."

The chaotic scenes, which were filmed and posted on social media, came after fans also complained of over-zealous treatment by the French police, who obliged match-goers to travel to the stadium only by shuttle bus after collecting a wristband from the Eurexpo Conference Centre, located eight miles outside the city centre. However, problems with the metro service meant many supporters were unable to get to the buses on time, leading to scores of them missing the start of the game, with some not being able to access the stadium at all.

Drasdo said "there are almost always problems with the French police" on European away trips. The French police were fiercely criticised for their behaviour during the chaotic scenes which overshadowed the 2022 Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid. On that day the police were filmed pepper spraying women and children with tickets while doing nothing to stop people climbing over the fences around the Stade de France and into the stadium.

A United spokesperson said the club were "gathering facts to establish a clear picture of what happened". MUST are appealing to fans affected to further investigate what took place and will be working with Football Supporters Europe (FSE) to "explore potential for a legal challenge to the way to the French authorities approach policing and security of away fans."