What had been predicted as a great atmosphere leading up to the second leg of the Europa League tie between Celtic and Valencia is starting to turn sour.
The Spanish media had been very positive towards travelling Celtics fans. That’s partly because of a reputation they have built up and partly because of good relations before, during and after the match at Celtic Park.
Home fans in Glasgow cheering their away supporters, who responded by chanting Celtic’s name, was seen warmly and covered by the Spanish media, and helped set the tone of a good atmosphere.
That said, the police were always likely to pounce at the slightest excuse. Fans of UK clubs travelling to Spain, and those from elsewhere in Europe, have been subject to heavy handed reactions from Spanish police for years and nothing looks like changing soon.
Super Deporte report that Valencia have now made an announcement on tickets sales.
The match isn’t yet sold out, but they’ve decided to close the ticket office at the Mestalla today.
A statement from the club reads: ‘For security reasons, Valencia CF has decided not to open the Mestalla box office during today, so there are no more tickets available for sale for this Thursday’s UEFA Europa League match against Celtic FC. Valencia CF regrets the inconvenience this measure, taken with knowledge of UEFA, Police and Celtic FC in order to secure the safety of fans, may cause some of our supporters.’
Super Deporte states: ‘The vast majority of Celtic fans are peaceful and jovial, as they have been seen on the streets of Valencia, but there are always exceptions.’
