LGBTQ+ Rainbow jacket plans scrapped by Man United after reports emerged of not everyone being on board with it.
LGBTQ+ initiative of Manchester United with Rainbow laces was initially thought of the players wearing rainbow jackets before kick-off against Everton.
However, defender Noussair Mazraoui refused to participate in the campaign, citing his Muslim beliefs, according to The Athletic.
When contacted by BBC Sport, United refused to confirm the player’s identity. Additionally, Mazraoui’s agent chose not to comment.
Rainbow Devils, a group that supports LGBTQ+ people, called it a “great disappointment,” while United defended the players’ “entitlement to hold their own individual opinions.”
As part of the charity Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign. Premier League clubs are supporting LGBTQ+ inclusiveness in sport by wearing rainbow armbands.
During Sunday’s 4-0 victory over the Toffees at Old Trafford, United captain Bruno Fernandes sported a rainbow armband.
Mazraoui is a £15 million summer acquisition from Bayern Munich. He reportedly informed teammates he wasn’t ready to don the jacket, according to The Athletic. According to the Athletic, the squad then made the decision that no player would wear it in order to prevent him from being perceived as the only one publicly refusing.
When asked about the situation, United issued a statement. “Manchester United welcomes fans from all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. We are strongly committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion.
“We demonstrate these principles through a range of activities. This is including support for our Rainbow Devils supporters’ club. And campaigns to celebrate our LGBTQ+ fans and combat all forms of discrimination.
“Players are entitled to hold their own individual opinions. Particularly in relation to their faith, and these may sometimes differ from the club’s position.”
Rainbow Devils said in a statement that members were informed “shortly before the game that these jackets would not be worn”.
“The reason being that one of the matchday squad had refused to wear the jacket on the grounds of their personally held beliefs,” the group said.
“Therefore, to maintain the team ethos and togetherness, none of the players would be wearing them.
“We respect the right of this player to have his own views. At the same time also felt 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. Especially on any player at the club who may be struggling with their sexuality.”