SUPPORTERS groups have cried foul over Arsenal’s partnership with a cryptocurrency company, as fans were told to use tokens to take part in votes on choices like what message should be written on the players’ tunnel.

The tokens which can be obtained by using Chiliz – the cryptocurrency of partners Socios that are more typically used by those looking to make a profit, and avoid the losses, on the new-look financial markets.

Both the Arsenal Supporters’ Trust and Arsenal Independent Supporters’ Association have raised concerns about the ethics of the club’s arrangements.

Arsenal are currently deciding which option to use for a message that the team will see just before they head onto the pitch at the Emirates Stadium, with the choices being: “The Arsenal Way”, “We Are The Arsenal”, “Wear The Cannon with Pride” and “Victoria Concordia Crescit”.

Tim Payton from Arsenal Supporters’ Trust told the Tribune: “The club needs to be careful of using the loyalty of fans. There needs to be more independent regulation and consumer awareness.”

Richard Smith from Arsenal Independent Supporters’ Association said he thought that “the whole idea doesn’t feel right”, adding: “Putting in money to register your support, we are not enthusiastic about it. You shouldn’t have to pay for such simple things such as what song the players come out to from the tunnel.”

He added: “One of the issues we are concerned about is that once you start something like this, you can’t stop because people have spent money already, so it’s an issue.”

It’s not just Arsenal who are working with Socios. Manchester City, Barcelona, AC Milan have partnerships in place with the cryptocurrency company. On Tuesday, UEFA have also announced that Socios have become the official fan token partner of its club competitions.

An Arsenal spokesperson said: “We launched our partnership with Socios in July 2021 to give our global fan base even more opportunities to engage with the club. We gave all our season ticket holders and members a free token so they could take part in online polls.”

They added: “We take our responsibilities with regard to marketing to our fans very seriously and as part of our promotions have provided information regarding the financial risks relating to crypto-currency investment. We always work to comply with the ASA’s guidance regarding all marketing communications and are seeking more clarity from them in this fast moving area.”

The Tribune also approached Socios for comment but the company had not replied at the time of going to press.