Edinson Cavani apologizes for the language he used on social media after scoring two goals for Manchester United in their Premier League match against Southampton on Sunday.
‘Gracias Negrito’, Said Cavani
Uruguayan thanked the fan using the phrase “gracias negrito,” which translates to thank you, little Black.
This expression is seen as a love word in South America but is considered offensive in some parts of the world, because its meaning can be misunderstood.
Cavani Vs Southampton
After taking over at half-time on Sunday with Manchester United trailing 2-0, Cavani had a quick impact, scoring two goals and assisting another goal to help his side to a stunning victory.
The Apology
“The message I sent after the game on Sunday was meant to greet my friend warmly, thanking him for his congratulations after the game,” Cavani apologized on the Manchester United website. “The last thing I wanted to do was offend anyone. I totally oppose racism and immediately removed the message when it was explained that it could be interpreted differently. I would like to sincerely apologize for this.”
Manchester United followed a statement from one of them, saying: “It is clear to us that there was no malicious intent on Edinson’s message and that he removed it as soon as he was told it could not be understood. Edinson completely in the fight against apartheid. “
Before Cavani issued an apology, the England Association of Finland confirmed to CNN that it was aware of the content on social media and was looking into it. According to the FA’s new rules, any player found guilty of discrimination will face at least six suspensions. However, if the Judicial Service Commission finds that there was no “real intent” to discriminate or create a breach, the suspension may be suspended for three games.
Previous Incident Involving Suarez
The comparison is drawn from the 2011 incident involving another Uruguayan player, Luis Suárez.
Suarez, a former Liverpool striker, repeatedly called on then Man United captain Patrice Evra “negro” during a Premier League match.
At the time, Suarez argued that the name was not offensive to his country. The FA, however, disagrees with Suarez. A report on the incident said Suarez did not use the word “negro” in the sense of “reconciliation and friendship which was common and inappropriate in Uruguay.”
Suarez was banned from eight games for which he was fined 40,000 pounds.
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