Aston Villa have been advised by West Midlands Police to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending their upcoming Europa League fixture at Villa Park due to security concerns. The November 6th clash will now be played without away supporters following fears over potential unrest linked to recent political tensions.
Police advise fan ban over safety concerns
Local police have advised Aston Villa to prevent Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from attending their Europa League encounter next month, citing safety risks related to recent geopolitical unrest.
The decision, made in consultation with Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group and approved by UEFA, means that no away fans will be allowed inside Villa Park for the November 6 fixture. Authorities have stressed that the measure is precautionary, aimed at avoiding potential demonstrations or clashes.The move comes after Maccabi Tel Aviv’s previous Europa League away fixture at PAOK saw heightened security and protests outside the stadium. Only around 120 Israeli fans made that trip under heavy police escort, with similar incidents occurring during Israel’s recent World Cup qualifiers against Norway and Italy.M
Israeli officials condemn the decision
The restriction has sparked a political reaction in Israel. Foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar slammed the ban as “shameful,” calling on the UK authorities to reverse what he described as a “coward decision.”
The Campaign Against Antisemitism also criticised British authorities, arguing that the move reflected a failure to ensure the safety and equality of Jewish supporters in public spaces. The organisation wrote: “Instead of confronting antisemitic hatred, British authorities are excluding Jewish fans. What does that say about policing and public order?”
However, UEFA has made clear that it will act in line with the advice of local law enforcement, prioritising the safety of players, staff, and fans.
Villa’s European campaign continues amid unrest
The issue casts a shadow over Aston Villa’s impressive European run under Unai Emery, with the club having won both of their opening Europa League games. Their next match, away to Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands, precedes the high-profile home tie against Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The Premier League side also has reason to be cautious following violent scenes in Rotterdam last month, when Villa fans were attacked by Feyenoord supporters ahead of their Europa League clash. Dutch police arrested five individuals following the incident, and fireworks were later set off outside the Villa team hotel.
Despite the disruption, Villa went on to claim a 2-0 win, with goals from Emiliano Buendía and John McGinn. Emery’s men currently top their group and will be eager to keep momentum — even if their next home night in Europe unfolds behind a quieter backdrop.
Broader UEFA context
While Israel’s national and club teams remain under scrutiny amid ongoing tensions, UEFA has reportedly paused any discussions of a potential suspension following the recent Gaza ceasefire. Several European clubs had expressed reluctance to play Israeli opposition, but the governing body has opted to maintain the status quo — at least for now.
For now, the focus turns to Aston Villa vs Maccabi Tel Aviv — a match now set to take place in front of home fans only, under the watchful eye of European football’s governing body.
