Premier League soccer team Manchester United opted against players wearing jackets from an LGBT activist campaign shortly before a match at Old Trafford after a Muslim player objected. Moroccan player Noussair Mazraoui said he would not don the apparel due to his religious beliefs. Mazraoui, who played 56 minutes in the game, which United won 4-0, expressed that his Muslim faith prompted his choice.
In earlier campaigns, United’s players had worn jackets symbolizing support for the LGBT agenda. This year, however, the club decided no player would wear the jacket to prevent isolating Mazraoui, 27, as the sole member of the team not participating. Adidas, responsible for producing the jackets and holding a $1.6 billion, 10-year contract as United’s kit supplier, has reportedly expressed disappointment over the decision.
Manchester United issued a statement underscoring its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The club emphasized support for its diverse fan base, including the LGBT community, while acknowledging players’ rights to personal beliefs.
The Rainbow Devils, United’s recognized LGBT supporters’ group, responded by respecting Mazraoui’s personal stance while expressing concerns over the implications for team dynamics.
In recent years, Muslims in Britain have pushed back against LGBT activists and campaigners, including in public schools. In 2019, Muslim parents led protests at schools in Birmingham, which forced other schools to stop teaching about LGBT issues.
Christian athletes who have declined to participate in LGBT campaigns, however, have been vilified, such as San Jose hockey goalie James Reimer, who declined to wear a Pride-themed jersey last year.
Soccer star Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace also faced possible disciplinary action for writing “I <3 Jesus” over his rainbow captain’s armband this week.
A Christian Toronto Blue Jays baseball player was even forced to apologize after expressing support for conservative boycotts of Target and Bud Light that were deemed anti-LGBT by critics.
