Poland PM calls for ‘diplomatic action’ as two Legia Warsaw stars arrested after match with AZ Alkmaar
TWO Legia Warsaw stars were arrested after their Europa Conference League defeat at AZ Alkmaar.
That’s after reportedly breaking a security guard’s elbow in disturbing clashes.
Chaotic scenes ensued after the dramatic European match in Holland, which the hosts won 1-0.
Riot police reportedly refused to let some Legia players and staff return to their team bus following the final whistle, having abruptly closed the stadium to prevent fans from clashing.
Polish outlet Sport.TV claims president and owner Dariusz Mioduski was struck in the face during a struggle with armoured cops.
And several members of staff were also said to be hit by batons.
Video has now emerged of police storming Legia’s team bus before arresting midfielder Josue and defender Radovan Pankov.
Dutch outlet De Telegraaf claims the duo “hit” a security guard “against the wall”, breaking his elbow and giving him a concussion.
They were hauled off the coach by cops before being detained at the local police station.
A Polish source told Sport.TV: “They [the police] didn’t want to listen or talk. The threat of an attack quickly appeared.”
The alleged incident has caused outrage in Poland.
Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki tweeted: “Very disturbing reports coming from Alkmaar.
“I have recommended that the Polish MFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) take urgent diplomatic action with a view to establishing the night’s events.
“Polish players and fans must be treated in accordance with the law.”
Polish government spokesman Piotr Mueller told radio station RMF: “The prime minister has informed me that he has asked the diplomatic services to clarify the matter urgently.
“At first glance it arouses serious doubts as to the justifiability of the Dutch authorities’ intervention and the way in which that intervention was conducted.
“The prime minster has recommended that it be urgently checked.”
AZ Alkmaar said: “Our response will follow later. We are in contact with the quadrangle (the club, mayor, police and the Public Prosecution Service).
“Something will definitely come from all of us, but not just one, two, three yet. We want to review the facts first.”
Dutch police told NL Times they couldn’t comment on the alleged incident with the Legia Warsaw team.
But it’s claimed before the match, a riot police officer was left unconscious after being cornered by away fans who stormed Alkmaar’s stadium.
Batons and pepper spray were apparently stolen from cops, who used tear gas in response.