Edinson Cavani has been hit with a three-match ban after the Manchester United striker used the word 'negrito' in a social media post.
He will now miss the Premier League game against Aston Villa, EFL Cup semi-final against Manchester City and FA Cup clash with Watford – leaving him free to return to action at Liverpool on January 17.
A statement from United read: 'As he has stated, Edinson Cavani wasn't aware that his words could have been misconstrued and he sincerely apologised for the post and to anyone who was offended.
'Despite his honest belief that he was simply sending an affectionate thank you in response to a congratulatory message from a close friend, he chose not to contest the charge out of respect for, and solidarity with, The FA and the fight against racism in football.
'While it is clear that context and intent are key factors, we note that the independent Regulatory Commission was required to impose a minimum three game suspension.
'The club trusts that the independent Regulatory Commission will make it clear in its written reasons that Edinson Cavani is not a racist, nor was there any racist intent in relation to his post.'
cooelmnruz
1194
I thought this year would be joyful......but it started with a sad news
Tiocdklnrs
982
I am black, I love my colour. Having said that, FA shouldn't be an obstacle to friends' social media conversations. Cavani was responding to a personal friend and I believe the friend received the text positively. Additionally, even the Bible says, "remind them even though they know." Telling me I'm black isn't racism, depriving me of my fundamental rights and freedoms due to my race is racism. If FA, FIFA, UEFA, DFB, IOL or whatever organization really stand firm against racism, let's see black referees, more black coaches, a black winning the Ballon d'Or and more. I rest my case.
NAADISHAIK
743
Guys then just remind us that we still in 2020
ishti
274
FA when it comes to deal with real Racism
Pgaius
157
it was to his friend, and the intent wasnt racist. to hell with this bull sh**t. so if am black and someone said am black is that racist. does it mean if i say *that white man* is also racist. but FA should also recruit black referees, may be this while racist thing can stop on and off pitch. coz i believe the a black ref would say (that black guy) and it wouldn't be racist. with time this whole thing would end!!!!
BarcaDieHard
110
If he didn’t know and has apologized then why ban him from playing Don’t politicize football soo much it will lose value
emabkr42
8
nadi famous hua re
shut up to your language it disturbing