Manchester United abandoned plans to wear a jacket supporting the LGBTQ+ community before Sunday’s win over Everton because a player refused to wear it.
The Athletic, external said defender Noussair Mazraoui declined to take part in the initiative, citing his Muslim faith.
United declined to confirm the identity of the player when approached by Sport. Mazraoui’s agent also declined to comment.
LGBTQ+ supporters’ club Rainbow Devils said it was a “great disappointment” but United said players are “entitled to hold their own individual opinions”.
Rainbow armbands are being worn as Premier League clubs show support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in charity Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign.
A Stonewall spokesperson said it had been “incredible to see so many football teams and players at all levels support” a campaign that “helps people feel safe and welcome both on and off the pitch”.
They added: “It is up to individual players and teams to choose how they show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.”
United captain Bruno Fernandes wore a rainbow armband during the 4-0 win over the Toffees at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The Athletic reported that Mazraoui – a £15m summer signing from Bayern Munich – told team-mates he was not prepared to wear the jacket. The team then decided that no player would wear it so he would not be seen as the only one publicly refusing, according to the Athletic.
When asked about the situation, United issued a statement: “Manchester United welcomes fans from all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and we are strongly committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion.
“We demonstrate these principles through a range of activities, including support for our Rainbow Devils supporters’ club, and campaigns to celebrate our LGBTQ+ fans and combat all forms of discrimination.
“Players are entitled to hold their own individual opinions, particularly in relation to their faith, and these may sometimes differ from the club’s position.”
United have previously worn rainbow-themed warm-up kit to show support to the LGBTQ+ community.
