Manchester United won’t have striker Edinson Cavani to call on for some critical upcoming games.
The FA suspended the Uruguayan striker for three matches and fined him £100,000 for a controversial Instagram comment made to a fan.
Cavani made the comment on November 29 following the team’s 3-2 win at Southampton.
He must also complete face-to-face education as part of his punishment.
The FA says Cavani’s comment was “insulting, abusive, improper, and brought the game into disrepute contrary to FA Rule E3.1.”
“The post also constitutes an “aggravated breach”, which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included reference, whether express or implied, to colour and/or race and/or ethnic origin.
“An independent Regulatory Commission was appointed to decide the sanction and its written reasons will be published in due course.”
Man United responded to the ruling.
“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.”
Cavani didn’t contest the ruling out of respect and solidarity with the FA and the fight against racism.
The club says they hope the Commission will put in writing that Cavani is not a racist.
They also want them to note Cavani’s comment had on racist intent.
The ruling means Cavani won’t play in tonight’s game against Aston Villa.
He’ll also miss next week’s Carabao Cup match with Manchester City and the third-round FA Cup fixture against Watford on January 9.
Cavani’s got three goals and two assists in nine Premier League appearances for the Red Devils this season.
You can read the full statement from Man United and the FA here. (JSL).
