West Ham has requested that supporters cease singing a chant about new signing Manor Solomon that contains anti-Palestine lyrics, ahead of the team's first home game of the season.
The club stated that while singing is a traditional part of the matchday experience, chants should not create division or cause offense among fellow fans. The statement emphasized the club's commitment to equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and the belief in football's power to unite.
The chant, "Manor Solomon is on my mind and he hates Palestine," was reportedly heard from a section of West Ham fans during the team's opening EFL Championship match at Burnley on Sunday. The lyrics are in reference to the Israel-Gaza war and are sung to the tune of the 1963 song "Do Wah Diddy Diddy."
Solomon, an Israeli international who completed national service in the Israeli Defence Forces, joined West Ham from Tottenham Hotspur for £5 million this summer. He scored on his debut against Burnley.
This is not the first time the chant has been heard. Some Leeds United fans reportedly sang the same lyrics while Solomon was on loan at their club during the 2024-25 season.
While the Metropolitan Police has indicated that the chant does not meet the threshold for tragedy chanting, and the Football Association is unlikely to take action, West Ham has proactively addressed the issue. The club's statement stressed that all supporters, regardless of background, should be able to enjoy watching their team without fear, discrimination, or abuse.
"We expect those who represent the Club – be that players, staff, officials or supporters – to share those values and ensure that, regardless of individual backgrounds or beliefs, we are as our name says: United," the statement read. "Let's make sure our support is something to be proud of, and the envy of all who face us."
Solomon has represented Israel 49 times since his debut in 2018. He has previously shared social media posts that appear to support the ongoing conflict.
West Ham is scheduled to play Charlton Athletic at home on Saturday.
