UEFA has insisted there they have not received any intelligence, to suggest that Wednesday’s Europa League final between Manchester United and Ajax, could be the target of attacks following Monday’s incident in Manchester.
At least, 22 people were killed and 59 injured, in an explosion at the end of Ariana Grande’s concert at Manchester Arena at around 22:33 local time.
GMP Chief Constable Ian Hopkins later confirmed that the suspect died at the scene, after allegedly detonating an “improvised explosive device.”
UEFA has moved to assure fans who plan to attend the Europa League final in Stockholm, that heightened security measures have long been in place.
“There is currently no specific intelligence which might suggest that any of the Europa League final activities in Stockholm may be the target of attacks,” a statement from European football’s governing body read.
“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.”
UEFA had earlier tweeted to say it was, “shocked by last night’s attack in Manchester. Our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those affected”.
President Aleksander Ceferin offered his condolences, adding: “I am deeply saddened by the horrible terrorist attack in Manchester last night. It shocks me that so many innocent people lost their lives and I would like to send my condolences to the families of those affected.”
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