“A Comment posted on the Manchester United striker’s Instagram profile was insulting, abusive, inappropriate and undermined the game (…). The message also constitutes an “aggravated offense” (…) because it included a reference, express or implied, to the color and / or to the race and / or to the ethnic origin “, indicates the FA in a communicated release. on its website.
The Uruguayan international is also sanctioned with a fine of 21. 000 pound sterling (111.000 euros) and must undergo training. In response to a congratulatory message sent to him by a friend after his decisive double in Manchester United’s victory at Southampton (3-2), Cavani wrote “Gracias negrito” (“thank you little black”).
After deleting the message, the ex -Buyer of PSG had apologized and the Red Devils had defended him by explaining that the word had been used with a friendly intention, and that it had a different connotation in South America. These explanations were not enough to prevent him from being suspended. “He chose not to appeal the decision, out of respect and solidarity with the FA and the fight against racism in football,” said Manchester United in a statement.
“The club hope that the independent disciplinary commission will make it clear in its written reasons that Edinson Cavani is not racist and that there was no racist intention in relation to his message “, underlines the club.
Due to his suspension, Cavani will not be able to play in the Premier League game against Aston Villa on Friday. He will also miss the League Cup semi-final against Manchester City and the FA Cup third round against Watford.