Leeds vs Man City stopped as fans boo during Ramadan break in clash

Leeds United and Manchester City’s Premier League clash at Elland Road was paused in the 13th minute on Saturday evening

Loud jeers echoed around Elland Road as Muslim players paused to break their fast during the Premier League fixture between Leeds United and Manchester City on Saturday evening.

The match was temporarily halted in the 13th minute to allow those observing Ramadan to hydrate, with several players making their way to the touchline. The interruption was pre-arranged, and an explanation was provided on the stadium scoreboard.

It stated: “As tonight’s match takes place during the holy period of Ramadan, play has been paused to allow players to break their fast.” However, as the break was taking place, loud boos rang out during the brief pause in play. Leeds assistant Eddie Riemer was asked about the booing post-match and said: “I am focused on the game and don’t really pay attention to what happens around it but, yes, disappointed with some supporters if it happens and we try to learn out of it.”

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Recently, Pep Guardiola was asked about the effect fasting can have on a player. He said: “They follow these religious traditions and of course we have good nutritionists and they adapt to what the team needs.

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“I think they’re used to it, they’re not young, they’re used to many, many years playing in this period.”

When questioned on whether it will influence team selections, he added: “No, they are well taken care (of) and they know how to handle these situations.”

There are numerous Muslim players throughout the Premier League, with former Everton star Abdoulaye Doucoure revealing what it’s like observing Ramadan as a professional footballer.

He told the BBC in 2023: “In the Premier League you are free to do whatever suits you. They will never do anything against your faith and this is great.

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“I fast every day, I don’t miss any day. It has become normal and very easy for me.

“Training is still the same during Ramadan but when we go [for away matches], we might need to eat later than the others so the chef prepares food for us, making sure everything is in place as at home. We get halal food so there are no problems.”