Maccabi Tel Aviv fans have been barred from attending their Europa League match against Aston Villa at Villa Park, following advice from the Safety Advisory Group (SAG). The club has confirmed that no travelling supporters will be allowed in the stadium for the November 6 fixture, after receiving a directive from both the SAG and UEFA.

The decision was made on the grounds of public safety outside the stadium and the capacity to manage potential protests on the night. The Israeli team’s visit to England has been overshadowed by the threat of protests and disruption. During Maccabi Tel Aviv’s recent match against Greek side PAOK, approximately 120 supporters were present under heavy police protection due to pro-Palestinian demonstrations outside the stadium.

In an official statement, Aston Villa said: “Aston Villa can confirm the club has been informed that no away fans may attend the UEFA Europa League match with Maccabi Tel Aviv on Thursday, November 6, following an instruction from the Safety Advisory Group.

“The Safety Advisory Group (SAG) are responsible for issuing safety certificates for every match at Villa Park, based on a number of physical and safety factors.”

“Following a meeting this afternoon, the SAG have formally written to the club and UEFA to advise no away fans will be permitted to attend Villa Park for this fixture.

“West Midlands Police have advised the SAG that they have public safety concerns outside the stadium bowl and the ability to deal with any potential protests on the night.

“The club are in continuous dialogue with Maccabi Tel Aviv and the local authorities throughout this ongoing process, with the safety of supporters attending the match and the safety of local residents at the forefront of any decision.”

Last year, Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were targets of antisemitic attacks while attending a match against Ajax last year, where dozens of people were arrested.

The Jewish Leadership Council has criticised the decision to stop Israeli fans from travelling to Birmingham.

On X, they wrote that it was “perverse that away fans should be banned from a football match because West Midlands Police can’t guarantee their safety.”

The council added: “Aston Villa should face the consequences of this decision and the match should be played behind closed doors.”