Manchester United have issued a statement condemning the behaviour of a small section of their support after a homophobic chant was heard from the away end during their draw with Chelsea. It comes after United used the trip to Stamford Bridge on Saturday night as an opportunity to demonstrate their support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Erik ten Hag wore a badge promoting Stonewall’s ‘Rainbow Laces’ campaign to celebrate inclusion in football, while club captain Bruno Fernandes wore a rainbow armband during the match.
United also launched their own ‘One Love’ campaign this weekend to show their unity with LGBTQ+ groups – especially those affiliated with the club such as the Rainbow Devils.
However, their hard work to promote inclusivity was undermined by the actions of some supporters, who were heard signing a homophobic chant during the match.
In a statement, the club said: “Homophobia, like all forms of discrimination, has no place in football. Manchester United is proud of our diverse fan base and the work we have done to reduce instances like we sadly heard at Stamford Bridge. “We will continue to campaign for inclusivity and to tackle discriminatory abuse whether inside stadiums or online. This includes working with fan groups to educate fans on the offence which discriminatory language causes.”
United's 'One Love' campaign will continue for West Ham’s visit to Old Trafford next Sunday, and will also be promoted when the women's side face Leicester City, Durham and Everton over the next week.