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| File image of Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes wearing a captain's armband with rainbow laces |
Manchester United has released a statement after the squad canceled plans to wear pro-LGBTQ+ pride jackets ahead of Sunday's Premier League visit to Everton.
The decision reportedly came about due to an objection by defender Noussair Mazraoui, who claimed he did not take part because of his Muslim faith.
Over the past two seasons, Manchester United players have demonstrated their support of the Rainbow Laces campaign by wearing pride-themed clothing during pre-match warm-ups and walkouts.
However, this year's plan was axed just hours before kickoff after Mazraoui reportedly informed teammates of his decision.
The Athletic reports that the Moroccan international's stance led the team to scrap the initiative to prevent him from being singled out.
While the move reportedly caused discontent among some players, it also drew disappointment from Adidas, United's long-term kit sponsor in a £900 million 10-year deal.
In a statement provided to the Manchester Evening News, the club reiterated its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
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| File image of Manchester United's defender Noussair Mazraoui |
“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.
“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,” the statement read.
However, captain Bruno Fernandes showed his support for the Rainbow Laces campaign by wearing a rainbow armband throughout the match.
In addition, representatives from both the men's and women's squads took part in video content in support of the campaign, which runs until December 5.
At the same time, Rainbow Devils, the club's LGBTQ+ supporters' group, issued a statement of mixed emotions on Wednesday, December 3.
"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," the statement read in part.
The group voiced concern over the potential impact on players struggling with their sexuality.
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