A Newcastle United fan has been stabbed in Milan ahead of the Magpies' first Champions League match in 20 years. After enjoying a day in central Milan with his son and a friend, 58-year-old Eddie McKay was attacked by a group of people in balaclavas on their way back to their hotel.
McKay was taken to hospital immediately and is said to be in stable condition but will not be discharged before Newcastle kick off their Champions League campaign at the San Siro this evening. The 58-year-old suffered stab wounds to his back and arms after he fell to the ground during a chase.
McKay's daughter, who is now flying out to Italy to be with her Dad, told reporters:
“My dad is stable and in a bit of shock. He's gutted he's missing the match but just wants every other Newcastle fan out here to be aware and be safe. He has just had two knee replacements so he fell when he was being chased and that is when he was attacked.
“My brother is okay but is in shock after seeing that happen to our dad. I'm flying out there later. We haven't slept all night.”
A football-related incident?
As things stand, the Italian police don't consider the ambush to be a football-related attack however McKay's family members aren't so sure. His nephew, who is also out in Milan, told the MailOnline:
“My uncle, cousin and their friend had just left a couple of other lads and were heading back to the hotel when around eight men in balaclavas appeared and attacked them.
“My cousin was hit with what they think was a police-type baton and has a gash on his head. They had a machete and used that to rip at their Newcastle tops. They only ran off when they had the shirts.
“My uncle is retired now and is just enjoying watching Newcastle and being with his family. We’re all in shock and very upset by what has happened. Thankfully, he is OK and is sitting up. He still wanted to go to the match on Tuesday night but that won’t be possible.”
Magpies in Milan. 🖤🤍 pic.twitter.com/gqQ1AeGctK
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 19, 2023
Newcastle “deeply concerned” by the attack
In light of the attack, Newcastle United swiftly released a statement condemning the attack. It read:
“We are deeply concerned by reports that a supporter was seriously assaulted in Milan on Monday evening and we are liaising with local authorities to understand the circumstances.
“Our thoughts are with the supporter and their family and we hope for a full and speedy recovery.”
The club will now be hoping that no further incidents take place before Newcastle fans make it to the away end at the San Siro on Tuesday evening.