A 17-year-old boy from St Albans has been arrested in connection with malicious messages sent to Sophia Havertz, the wife of Arsenal forward Kai Havertz, Hertfordshire Police confirmed on Tuesday.

The arrest follows an investigation into abusive and threatening direct messages shared by Sophia Havertz after Arsenal’s FA Cup loss to Manchester United on January 12.

Sophia had posted screenshots of the messages on her Instagram story, including one containing a horrific threat to “slaughter” her unborn child.

The posts highlighted the toxic online abuse directed at her following Arsenal’s penalty shootout defeat at the Emirates Stadium, where Havertz missed a crucial chance and failed to convert during the shootout.

Police Action

The 17-year-old was arrested on suspicion of malicious communications and has since been released on bail while investigations continue.

A statement from Hertfordshire Police confirmed their commitment to addressing such behavior:

“Abuse directed at anyone is unacceptable. We take such allegations very seriously and are conducting a thorough investigation.”

Context of the Abuse

Arsenal’s defeat against defending FA Cup champions Manchester United was a tense and closely fought match.

Havertz, a Germany international, faced criticism after missing a close-range opportunity during the game and failing to score in the penalty shootout.

However, the abuse directed at his wife has drawn widespread condemnation.

Online Abuse in Football

The incident once again exposes the growing problem of online abuse in football, particularly targeted at players and their families.

Clubs and footballing authorities have repeatedly called for social media platforms to implement stricter controls to combat abusive messages and protect those involved in the sport.

Arsenal is yet to issue a formal statement on the matter.