Merseyside Police have arrested a 47-year-old man from Liverpool after Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo reported being racially abused during Friday’s Premier League opener at Anfield.
The incident, which led to a brief stoppage in play, was immediately reported to the referee by Semenyo.
The suspect was identified, ejected from the stadium, and later taken into custody on Saturday on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence.
Semenyo later thanked teammates, Liverpool players, supporters, and officials for their response to the incident.
Under UK law, racially or religiously aggravated offences carry tougher penalties.
Convictions can attract up to two years imprisonment, an unlimited fine, or both.