Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani has been handed a three-game ban by the Football Association following a discriminatory social media post by the forward last month.
Cavani has been charged with misconduct following a social media post in the aftermatch of United’s 3-2 win at Southampton last month the victory, replying to a congratulatory message on Instagram with the words ‘Gracias Negrito’, which translates in Spanish as ‘thanks black’.
The Uruguay international had been the match-winner in an entertaining clash between the two sides at St Mary’s, coming off the bench to score twice – including a late winner – as the Red Devils came from two goals down to secure victory.
United had stressed that the comments have different connotations in South America, though the FA – in line with guidelines introduced in a bid to eradicate racist and discriminatory language and behaviour – have found the 33-year-old guilty of misconduct.
A statementstatement from the FA read: “Edinson Cavani has been suspended for three games, fined £100,000 and must complete face-to-face education after admitting a charge for a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to a social media post on Sunday 29 November 2020.
“A comment posted on the Manchester United FC striker’s Instagram page was insulting, abusive, improper and brought the game into disrepute contrary to FA Rule E3.1.
“The post also constitutes an ‘aggravated breach’, which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included reference, whether express or implied, to colour and/or race and/or ethnic origin.
“An independent Regulatory Commission was appointed to decide the sanction and its written reasons will be published in due course.”
United have also issued a statement in which they outlined Cavani’s unawareness at how the comments would be received and detailing the forward’s decision not to contest the charge “out of respect for, and solidarity with, The FA and the fight against racism in football.”
Cavani will now miss tomorrow’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa at Old Trafford, alongside the Carabao Cup semi-final with Manchester City and the Red Devils’ FA Cup third round clash with Watford.
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