Manchester United’s LGBTQ+ supporters’ club have expressed their dismay at the players’ decision not to wear special rainbow shirts ahead of Sunday’s game against Everton.
Athletic reported this morning that United’s players had pulled out after Moroccan defender Nussair Mazraoui, who is Muslim, said he would not wear the shirt for religious reasons.
To avoid Mazraui being criticized, the rest of the team followed suit, although Athletic reported that not everyone in the dressing room was happy with the decision.
Rainbow Devils statement after @AdamCrafton_ article in @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/zSoBBdydEm
— Rainbow Devils (@RainbowDevils) December 4, 2024
The Rainbow Devils, who worked with the club to help promote the Premier League’s Rainbow Touch initiatives at the weekend, said in a statement: “As part of this year’s Rainbow Touch campaign, the Rainbow Devils have worked closely with Manchester United and have had great support from Manchester United and Fan Engagement team.
“This has included working with the Manchester United Foundation to spread the message of inclusion with local schools, a Q&A with two men’s team players, messages of support from many of the men’s and women’s first team players (including a personal one from captain Bruno Fernandes). ).Even a pitchside event at Old Trafford on Sunday before the Everton game.
“At the last event, which was United’s official Rainbow Lace match, the players had to wear specially designed shirts to mark the occasion before the game. The Rainbow Devils were informed shortly before the game that the jerseys would not be worn. The reason is that one of the team on the day of the game refused to wear the jacket, citing his personal beliefs. Therefore, to maintain team morale and unity, none of the players wear them.
“This is obviously a huge disappointment for the Rainbow Devils, but also for everyone at the club who has worked so hard to deliver this event. We know who this player is, but we feel that it is not our job to single him out and risk damage. not doing all the other positive things that most of them have done at the club.”
Position can have a greater effect
The Rainbow Devils also said that the position of the players can prevent their counterpart from coming out.
The statement added: “We respect this player’s right to have their own opinions, while we are disappointed that he put the rest of the team in a position where they felt they could not keep their shirts on. We are also concerned that this how the incident affects every player at the club who may struggle with their sexuality.
“Radbow Devils will continue to work with Manchester United to support inclusion through the One Love initiative and others as we all continue our work to make all LGBTQ+ people feel safe and welcome at Old Trafford both on and off the pitch. “
💬 “Always have a smile on your face.”@HarryMaguire93 advises in a recent interview with future generations @RainbowDevils 👇#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 3, 2024
This year’s rainbow campaign attracted even more than previous years.
Ipswich captain Sam Morsi refused to wear a rainbow armband on religious grounds, while Crystal Palace boss Mark Guehy was reprimanded by the Football Association for writing ‘I love Jesus’ on his face.
In a statement to The Athletic, United said they were “strongly committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion” but that “players are entitled to their own views, particularly in relation to their faith, and these may sometimes differ from the norm”. position of the club”.
Proud to support @PremierLeague‘s #Rainbow campaign ❤️🏳️🌈#MUFC || #PL pic.twitter.com/x2R4DzxdG3
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 1, 2024
“Bayern” fans criticized Mazraui
This is not the first time Mazraui has taken this stance on initiatives surrounding the LGBTQ+ community.
In 2023, the defender supported Moroccan team-mate Zakaria Aboukhloal after he withdrew from the Ligue 1 equivalent of the Rainbow campaign while playing for Toulouse.
Mazrawi was criticized by fans of his then club Bayern Munich who displayed a banner that read: “All colors are beautiful. In Toulouse, Munich and everywhere. Respect our values Mazrawi!”
