Manchester United have cancelled this evening’s pre-match press conference in response to the terrorist attack in Manchester on Monday night.
Uefa reportedly accepted a request by the club to forego the traditional press conference ahead of tomorrow night’s Europa League final in Stockholm.
Twenty-two people were killed and a further 59 hospitalised after the attack, which occurred as crowds departed the Manchester Arena following an Ariana Grande concert.
Following last night’s tragic events, a number of high-profile figures including players past and present from both Manchester giants offered their support and condolences to the victims and their families.
My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by last nights attack on this beautiful city. We will stand together in this dark hour ❤️
— Jesse Lingard (@JesseLingard) May 23, 2017
My thoughts & prayers are with all the families & friends affected by last nights attack in Manchester! #StandTogether
— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) May 23, 2017
I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims. It's a sad day for the great city of Manchester. #Unity
— Vincent Kompany (@VincentKompany) May 22, 2017
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) May 23, 2017
Thought & prayers goes out to people of Manchester and all those who are affected.🙏🏾🙏🏾
— Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) May 23, 2017
The club’s opponents in tomorrow night’s final – Ajax – have also taken to social media to pay tribute to those affected.
From Amsterdam with love to Manchester. Our thoughts are with the victims and the loved ones of those affected.
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) May 23, 2017
Last night’s horrific attack prompted a statement from Uefa regarding safety and security at tomorrow night’s match in the Swedish capital, in which they urged supporters to arrive as early as possible.
“UEFA has been closely working with local authorities and the Swedish FA for many months and the terrorist risk had been taken into account since the very beginning of the project. Furthermore, a number of additional security measures were implemented following the attacks in Stockholm last April.
“Due to the tight security arrangements, UEFA urges fans to arrive at the stadium as early as possible, as detailed checks will be made at the entrances, resulting in potential delays in accessing the stadium.”
