Moroccan international Noussair Mazraoui said he would not take part in wearing a special Adidas jacket, forcing the club to abandon the initiative. The jacket was an effort to support the LGBTQ+ community, The Athletic reports.
Reports said Mazraoui decided not to wear the jacket, citing his religious beliefs. The club abandoned the initiative because they did not want the Moroccan to be seen as the only player who refused to wear it.
Manchester United’s LGBTQ+ fan group, Rainbow Devils, expressed their disappointment by releasing a statement: “We respect the right of this player to have his own views, whilst also feeling disappointed that he put the rest of the squad into a position where they felt that they couldn’t wear their jackets. We also worry what kind of negative effect this incident might have on any player at the club who may be struggling with their sexuality. Rainbow Devils will continue to work with Manchester United to support inclusivity, through the One Love initiative and others, as we all continue our work to ensure all LGBTQ+ people feel safe and welcome at Old Trafford, both on and off the pitch.” Cited from Goal. Com.
The club also responded to The Athletic: “Manchester United welcomes fans from all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and we are strongly committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion. We demonstrate these principles through a range of activities, including support for our Rainbow Devils supporters’ club, and campaigns to celebrate our LGBTQ+ fans and combat all forms of discrimination.” Cited from Goal. Com.
Mazraoui’s decision was supported by many on social media, with numerous people standing by the player’s choice.
@UncleYakub commented under The Athletic’s post: “His life. His religion. His decision. His belief. Respect it. Good one, Nous.”
@FergiesRightRef said: “HUGE W from Nous. Stop shoving LGBTQ stuff down people’s throats.”
@___klassy wrote: “If the FA is so bent on forcing everyone to support the LGBTQ+ community, how about they create their own team at all levels of football? Call it LGBTQ FC . They can wear whichever shades of rainbow jerseys they want. They can sign players willing to play for them. Forcing people against their beliefs is nuts. @premierleague @FIFAcom, y’all just create your team and name it LGBTQ FC.”
@beBright07 commented: “Stop forcing people to accept what they don’t want.”
@DJHEATLIVE added: “Why is @TheAthleticFC running this story about him ONLY when numerous players of different faiths have refused to wear the gear being forced on them?”
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