AN unnamed supporter of Newcastle United is safe and in a stable condition in hospital after being stabbed in Milan yesterday ahead of his side’s UEFA Champions League fixture, Italian police confirmed today.

Newcastle United, who finished fourth in the English Premier League last season, face AC Milan tonight from 5.45pm at San Siro in the opening Group F match of the 2023/2024 Champions League campaign.

The fan was stabbed twice in the arm and once in the back, according to the Italian police, but is expected to leave hospital later today.

Police say they were called to an incident in the popular nightlife area of Navigli at around midnight.

The police said: “The victim was with a friend and it is thought they encountered a group of seven/eight other people. It is not known if this group were Italian or foreigners.

“The state police have opened an investigation to try and discover exactly what happened, the motive and to find those responsible.

“Many Newcastle fans have arrived in the city of Milan and this is the only reported incident.”

Newcastle expressed their concern about the incident and promised to work with Italian law enforcement to look into it.

“Our thoughts are with the supporter and their family and we hope for a full and speedy recovery,” the club said in a statement today.

AC Milan were semi-finalists in the competition last season while Newcastle United are back for the first time in 20 years.

Stabbings are not uncommon with Italian ultras (die-hard fans) while travelling England fans also have a reputation of rowdiness.

[NaijaTimes]