Wolves and Sunderland condemn racist abuse of Arokodare and Mundle
Wolves and Sunderland have condemned racist abuse directed at Tolu Arokodare and Romaine Mundle following the latest round of Premier League fixtures.
Both clubs released strong statements on Sunday after their players were targeted by social media users in the wake of weekend defeats.
Wolves forward Arokodare faced discriminatory messages after his side’s loss to Crystal Palace, while Sunderland winger Mundle was targeted following a reverse against Fulham.
‘Zero-tolerance approach’
The Molineux club confirmed they have reported the accounts responsible to both the police and social media platforms.
“Tolu has our full and unwavering support,” a Wolves statement read.
“No player should be subjected to such hatred simply for doing their job.”
“We stand firmly alongside him, and alongside all footballers who are forced to endure this abuse from anonymous accounts acting with apparent impunity.”
The Premier League’s bottom side emphasised they would work with authorities to identify perpetrators.
Arokodare expressed his disbelief at the lack of accountability for online perpetrators.
“It’s still unbelievable to me that we’re playing in a time where people have so much freedom to communicate such racism without any consequences,” the Nigerian striker posted on social media.
“These individuals should have no place in our game and collectively we have to take action to punish everyone who taints the sport like this, no matter who they are.”
Sunderland vow strongest possible action
The Black Cats have seen their form dip recently, but the club insisted that on-pitch results offer no justification for hate speech.
“The club is actively working with the relevant authorities and online platforms to identify those responsible, and we will take the strongest possible action available to us,” a Sunderland spokesperson said.
“These individuals do not represent Sunderland AFC, our values, or our community – and they are not welcome on Wearside.”
Wider issue in the Premier League
These incidents occurred just 24 hours after Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana was subjected to similar treatment.
The France international was sent off during the Blues’ 1-1 draw with Burnley at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The west London club stated they were “appalled and disgusted” by the messages sent to the centre-back.
Online safety remains a significant concern for the Premier League, with clubs consistently calling for stricter verification measures on social media platforms to prevent anonymous abuse.