‘My friends weren’t Arsenal fans’ – Thierno Barry hits back at ticket backlash

Everton striker Thierno Barry has moved to clarify controversy surrounding ticket allocations during his side’s clash with Arsenal FC, insisting claims that he handed seats to opposition supporters are untrue.

The forward came under scrutiny after criticising sections of Everton’s travelling support for confronting individuals he had invited to the game.

The backlash quickly intensified on social media, with some fans alleging that Barry’s guests were in fact Arsenal supporters.

However, the striker has firmly rejected those claims, taking to social media to defend his actions and the identity of those present in the away section.

“Some of the information circulating does not reflect reality. Contrary to what has been suggested, I never gave tickets to Arsenal supporters,” Barry said.

He explained that the individuals in question have consistently supported him throughout his career journey across Europe, from KSK Beveren to FC Basel and Villarreal CF, before his current spell at Everton.

“The people who were present to support me have always followed the clubs I have played for throughout my career,” he added.

Barry also dismissed suggestions that his friends were involved in widely circulated footage showing disturbances in the stands, distancing them from any wrongdoing during the incident.

“Yesterday, some of them were even wearing an Everton shirt with my name on it,” he said.

The situation has reignited debate around fan behaviour and player safety, particularly in high-profile fixtures where tensions can escalate quickly.

“I simply want to remind everyone that violence has no place in football, regardless of the circumstances,” Barry added.

Everton'ın forvet oyuncusu Thierno Barry, arkadaşlarını deplasman tribününe davet etti.

Everton taraftarları, Arsenal'in gol atmasını kutlamaları sonrası davetlilerle kavga etti.🤯
pic.twitter.com/5hS4IYZxYm

— Kapitano Sports (@kapitanosport) March 15, 2026