Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association (FA) following allegations that he spat toward Leeds United fans during a Premier League match last month.
The incident reportedly occurred in the 67th minute of Burnley’s 2–0 win over Leeds at Turf Moor on 18 October, while Mejbri was still warming up on the sidelines. The 22-year-old, who joined Burnley from Manchester United, entered the match as a substitute in the 83rd minute and received a booking in added time.
According to an FA statement, Mejbri is accused of acting “in breach of the laws of the game and/or in an improper manner and/or using abusive and/or indecent behaviour by spitting at or in the direction of Leeds United supporters.”
The Tunisian international has until Friday, 28 November, to respond to the charge.
The matter was also investigated by Lancashire Police after a Leeds supporter lodged a formal complaint. In a separate statement, police said they were “working with Burnley Football Club to establish the facts.”
This is not the first time Mejbri has been involved in controversy against Leeds. During Burnley’s 1–0 Championship victory at Elland Road last season, he appeared to taunt home fans by raising his arms as he walked behind the goal after being substituted.
The FA’s disciplinary process will now determine whether Mejbri faces a fine or suspension if found guilty.
