Manager Eddie Howe and his side had enjoyed a strong start to their Champions League campaign, picking up three wins in a row after losing to Barcelona in their opener.
However, their hopes took a dent on Wednesday night as the Magpies were beaten 2-1 by Marseille thanks to goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Despite the loss, the bigger story has been the treatment of fans, which the club has complained about.
Reports claim that pepper spray and the excessive use of batons were used, as well as accounts of crowd crushing in the upper concourse. The club released a statement on Thursday morning in what are shocking details.
"Following the final whistle, our supporters were required to remain in the stadium for a period of up to one hour on the instruction of local authorities to ensure their safety when leaving the stadium.
"Plans were in place to move 500 supporters at a time, with a police escort, to the Metro station for onward travel to Place de la Joliette.
"Our supporters were in good spirits despite the disappointing result and waited patiently and without incident during the hold back period. The post-match operation was observed at close quarters by our stewards and senior staff.
"Once the first group of supporters was released, the police began using unnecessary and disproportionate force to stop the remainder of our fans from moving any further. This was actioned through a combination of pepper spray, batons and shields, with numerous supporters being indiscriminately assaulted by the police.
"Many supporters were visibly distressed, particularly in the upper concourse area of the away section, where crushing became apparent."
The club will now await a response from UEFA, who take such claims seriously and should investigate the matter.