Aston Villa announced a new partnership with online betting company Parimatch on Monday.
However, their official club post on the matter didn’t go down well with a number of Villa supporters, who took to social media to vent their frustration at the news.
Some Villa fans haven’t been happy at the club’s association with betting companies this summer, including sleeve sponsor OB Sports and the launch of the $AVL Fan Token.
Parimatch, who have also partnered with fellow Premier League clubs Brighton and Southampton, ‘will provide fans, within appropriate age and territory restrictions, with the opportunity for matchday access, unique experiences and events’.
The company are also involved with Chelsea, Everton and Leicester, bringing their dealings with top-flight sides to six.
Villa fans react
Villa shared the news regarding an agreement with Parimatch on their official Twitter page. This is what these Villa fans had to say in reply, with many not happy and one labelling it as ‘disappointing’.
“If it’s not cryptocurrency being shovelled down your throat & minors asking what’s this new ‘fan token’ all about… then it’s another betting partner. Shame on you, Villa.”
Credit: @RyanABAOPod
“Booooo”
Credit: @_ElliotAV
“Disappointing to see this from my club. Not something we should be actively promoting. Expected better.”
Credit: @ChristianLong7
“don’t do that to me”
Credit: @avbiIly
“Yet more gambling and betting, a cancer of the game. We can and should set an example and politely decline this dirty money.”
Credit: @stephenlwright
“We discussed the other day the sheer lack of commercial income at #avfc and the work Purslow still has a lot to do on. Another announcement for business ties. Just a shame this one is a betting connection.”
Credit: @amc89avfc
In other news: ‘Bad attitude’ – Aston Villa ace’s comments have got loads of fans talking.