The Arsenal Independent Supporters’ Association (AISA) has written to the Spanish government urging a review of the policing methods that Arsenal fans experienced in Madrid before and after the recent Europa League semi-final with Atletico Madrid.

A letter to the Spanish ambassador in London details the ‘inexcusable’ treatment endured by Gunners fans visiting the Wanda Metropolitano. Earlier in the season, supporters of Chelsea and Liverpool experienced similar aggression from local police in Barcelona and Sevilla respectively.

“Without any provocation police officers hit Arsenal fans with their batons, amongst them women, children and older supporters,” AISA chair Lois Langton said.

“The police also wouldn’t permit Arsenal supporters to use the toilets post-match without reason, explication or previous notice.

“The violence of the police officers was inexcusable,” AISA say. “Police officers have an obligation to comport themselves using force only when necessary and proportionate to protect themselves and the public.

“In Madrid that night the behaviour of some police officers was that of violent uniformed thugs.”

AISA wants an independent investigation into the behaviour of Madrid’s police.

The Football Supporters’ Federation (The FSF) report that Football Supporters Europe continues to monitor the experience of travelling fans on the continent, “lobbying UEFA for higher standards of policing and stewarding across the Champions League and Europa League.”