Key Highlights
- Ivan Toney, former Brentford striker and current Al-Ahli player, was arrested for a headbutt incident in London.
- The incident occurred at a trendy bar in Soho after Toney allegedly clashed with selfie hunters over a photo opportunity.
- Witnesses claim the 29-year-old may have felt threatened by the group trying to take his picture.
- Toney was arrested on suspicion of two counts of assault and one count of affray, but has since been released on bail.
A Football Star Arrested in a Bar Brawl over Selfie Incident
The football world was shocked when Ivan Toney, the high-flying striker for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, was arrested at a trendy bar in London’s Soho district on Saturday night. The former Brentford player, who moved to Saudi Arabia last year, found himself in handcuffs after an alleged headbutt incident with selfie hunters.
Incident Details
The drama unfolded when Toney walked past a table of a group of people at 100 Wardour St, where he was recognised by one of them. A witness told The Sun: “He walked past a table of a group who said, ‘Oh, it’s Ivan Toney’ and tried to put their hands around his neck for a selfie.” According to the same source, Toney responded with frustration, saying “Get off me, get off me,” which led to the alleged headbutt incident.
A one-on-one fight ensued, and police arrived within half an hour. The 29-year-old was arrested on suspicion of two counts of assault and one count of affray. Local security described seeing a “ton of police cars rushing up Wardour Street.” A bartender working nearby also noted the presence of personal security.
Aftermath and Investigation
Toney’s representative was approached for comment, but no statement has been issued as of yet. The incident took place early Saturday morning at 00:47hrs, and a local ambulance was called to treat injuries sustained by the alleged victim. London Ambulance Service confirmed that one patient was taken to hospital while others were treated on-site.
Witnesses said the victim had facial injuries, including a broken nose, as well as a broken ring finger.
Photos of him bloodied at the scene show his injury. The Met Police stated that Toney was released from custody on bail pending further inquiries, but the incident is expected to impact his career and personal life.
Background on Ivan Toney
Toney began his football journey with Northampton Town in 2012 before moving to Newcastle United in 2015. He played for Brentford from 2020 until last year, where he scored 31 goals that helped the team secure promotion to the Premier League. His impressive goal-scoring record made him a contender for the England national team, but he was banned for eight months in 2023 after admitting gambling breaches with the FA.
Despite his ban, Toney signed for Al-Ahli and has since become a key player in the Saudi Pro League.
His arrest could complicate any future return to English football or international play, especially considering his demands for a high wage that might be seen as problematic by potential clubs.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with such confrontations in public spaces and highlights the growing importance of maintaining composure among sports stars. As the investigation continues, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how this event unfolds for Toney’s career both on and off the pitch.
