(Credit: Imago)

Jacob Raw

Sun 15 March 2026 15:17, UK

Everton are working with two police forces, as friends of Thierno Barry were involved in a physical incident at the Arsenal game on Saturday.

David Moyes’ side were beaten 2-0 by Arsenal at the weekend, but the Toffees boss may now have a bigger issue with what’s happened with his striker.

Barry had friends in the away end at the Emirates Stadium who had to be escorted away by Arsenal’s stewards and police after they were involved in an “altercation” with Blues fans.

According to the Liverpool Echo, police are aware of allegations that were made by individuals online, who were also involved in the incident with Barry’s friends.

Moyes started Beto against Arsenal, and it could remain that way until the situation around Barry is calmed down.

What did Thierno Barry say about incident?

Both the Merseyside Police and Metropolitan Police are investigating the matter, as given the reports of previous online interactions, the incident seems more serious than just an altercation.

Everton are also looking into the issue and have confirmed that they aim to establish the facts, urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward to help all parties.

• Barry was brought on for Beto in the 69th minute
• He had 10 touches of the ball

Taking to Instagram after the game, Barry expressed his emotions after seeing people he cares for caught up in distressing scenes involving suspected fans of the team he plays for.

Barry wrote: “This kind of behaviour is not acceptable in a stadium. I bring my friends to enjoy a game, and it gets ruined by a few silly people.

“My friends and the people who were attacked had to be escorted by the Arsenal club’s security staff as well as the police because of fears of retaliation from our supporters.”

Barry has had his critics this season, and it’s not an ideal situation to be connected to.

How have Everton fans reacted to Barry’s video being published?

The video first came about after Barry posted the footage shortly after the game. The footage then quickly spread on social media, prompting multiple reactions.

Many Blues fans are disappointed with what the video has shown, but some supporters have been left unhappy that Barry has published it in the first place.

They have suggested that he should have kept it private, allowing the club and other relevant forces to do the investigation.

The incident at this stage lacks facts, so it’s unclear as to which group started the altercation, but either way, it could take some time for the situation to be resolved.

Moyes would be smart to avoid playing Barry until after the international break that’s coming up, as the number nine is someone who is often criticised for performances as it is.