The sanction for Edinson Cavani: The English Football Association indicated on Thursday that the Uruguayan received one three-match suspension for using the word “bold” on his Instagram account.
The statement from the FA indicates that the comment of the footballer of the Manchester United was “insulting, abusive, inappropriate and led the game to a disrepute contrary to rule E3.1. of the FA“In addition, it indicates that the publication constitutes an aggravated misconduct, defined by rule e.3.2, since”includes a reference, implicitly or explicitly, to color, race, or ethnicity”.
Cavani also received a fine of £ 100,000 (about $ 136,000) and will have to attend classes on racism, As indicated by the FA.
The Uruguayan was sanctioned after responding to a story from an acquaintance who congratulated him on his performance against Southampton, where he scored two goals, with the phrase “Thank you, bold”.
Cavani will miss matches against Aston Villa (Premier League), Manchester City (League Cup semi-final) and Watford (third round of the FA Cup).
Following the decision, Manchester United issued a statement saying “Cavani was unaware that his words could be misinterpreted and apologized for the publication and to anyone who might feel offended.” In addition, they noted that “while honestly believing that I was simply sending an affectionate greeting in response to a message from a close friend, decided not to resort to sanction out of respect and solidarity with the FA and the fight against racism in football”.
“While it is clear that context and intent are key factors, it is noted that the independent Regulatory Commission required a minimum three-match sanction. The club is confident the commission will make it clear in its written reasons that Edinson Cavani is not racist and that it had no racist intent in its publication“Manchester United added in a statement.