Arsenal issue warning to fans travelling to Russia for Europa League tie against CSKA Moscow amid political tension
The Gunners will welcome Viktor Goncharenko's side to the Emirates on April 5, before facing the Russian club at the VEB Arena on April 12
ARSENAL have implored fans travelling to Russia to follow the advice from the Foreign Office ahead of next month’s Europa League tie against CSKA Moscow.
Tensions have been heightened between England and Russia following the use of a nerve agent that poisoned former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter.
The Gunners will welcome Viktor Goncharenko’s men to the Emirates on April 5 for the first leg of the quarter-final, before facing the Moscow outfit at the VEB Arena a week later.
Arsenal encouraging supporters planning to travel to follow the advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).
It read: “Due to heightened political tensions between the UK and Russia, you should be aware of the possibility of anti-British sentiment or harassment at this time.
“You’re advised to remain vigilant, avoid any protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.
“While the British Embassy in Moscow is not aware of any increased difficulties for British people travelling in Russia at this time, you should follow the security and political situation closely and keep up to date with this travel advice.”
Boris Johnson recently declared that it was “overwhelmingly likely” that Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the attack on Skripal and his 33-year-old daughter, a claim that has infuriated the Kremlin as they strenuosuly deny any involvement.
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A CSKA spokesperson eased any fears of potential danger in Moscow between the two sides, claiming English fans have nothing to worry about.
They told : “We are happy to play Arsenal and don’t see any danger for English fans that would like to come to Moscow, we have already played against Manchester United this season in Moscow and everything went well.”
One positive for Arsenal fans is that they evaded Diego Simeone’s fearsome Atletico Madrid in the last eight, who were subsequently drawn against Sporting Lisbon.
RB Leipzig will face Ligue 1 giants Marseille, while Lazio entertain Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg.
It is the first time the North London club have reached the quarter-finals of a European competition since the 2009/10 season, after they eased to a 5-1 aggregate win against AC Milan.
CSKA meanwhile advanced through on away goals after narrowly beating Lyon 3-2 on Thursday night.