Manchester United’s plans to show support for the LGBTQ+ community before their 4-0 victory over Everton on Sunday were unexpectedly scrapped after a player refused to wear a jacket promoting inclusivity, citing his Muslim faith.

The player in question is Noussair Mazraoui, the £15m summer signing from Bayern Munich.

Mazraoui reportedly told his teammates that he was not prepared to wear the jacket, leading the club to abandon the initiative to avoid singling him out.

United did not confirm the identity of the player when approached by BBC Sport, and Mazraoui’s agent declined to comment on the matter.

The decision to withdraw the jackets, which were meant to support the LGBTQ+ community as part of the ongoing Rainbow Laces campaign, was met with disappointment by LGBTQ+ supporters’ group Rainbow Devils.

They issued a statement saying they were informed shortly before the match that the jackets would not be worn. The group emphasized that the reason for this decision was because one player had refused to wear the jacket due to “personally held beliefs.”

“Therefore, to maintain the team ethos and togetherness, none of the players would be wearing them,” Rainbow Devils stated. 

“We respect the right of this player to have his own views, whilst also feeling disappointed that he put the rest of the squad into a position where they felt that they couldn’t wear their jackets.”

“We also worry what kind of negative effect this incident might have on any player at the club who may be struggling with their sexuality.”

Despite the controversy, United captain Bruno Fernandes wore a rainbow armband during the match, in line with the Premier League’s support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.

In a statement, Manchester United reaffirmed their commitment to diversity, saying, “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.”

This incident follows similar concerns elsewhere in the Premier League.

The Football Association (FA) recently addressed an issue involving Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who wrote a ‘Jesus loves you’ message on his rainbow armband during the club’s win over Ipswich.

The FA reminded both Guehi and Crystal Palace that religious messaging on kits is prohibited.

Manchester United will visit Arsenal at the Emirates stadium tonight in an English Premier League Matchday 14 clash.

Amorim’s United is yet to lose a match ever since his takeover and will look to create an upset against the 2nd positioned Arsenal.

‘A Storm Will Come’ – Ruben Amorim Warns Manchester United Fans

Manchester United head coach, Ruben Amorim has issued a cautionary warning to Manchester United supporters, despite his unbeaten early results after take over.

The 39-year-old, who took charge just three weeks ago, has enjoyed a perfect start with the Red Devils, winning all three of his matches, including a dominant 4-0 victory over Everton on Sunday—the club’s biggest league win since 2021.

However, speaking ahead of United’s challenging trip to Arsenal on Wednesday (today), Amorim suggested that a period of difficulty is inevitable as he and his players continue to adjust to his methods.

“I would like to say different things, but I have to say it again: the storm will come,” Amorim warned.

“I don’t know if you use that expression, but we are going to have difficult moments and we will be found out in some games.”

“I know that because I know my players and I know football and I follow football. We are in the point in that we are putting simple things in the team, without training.”

Amorim candidly explained the tough realities that come with managing one of the biggest clubs in the world, where high expectations often leave little room for error.

He also cited the gaps in experience and tactical depth between United and their major rivals.

“We want to win all the time, no matter what, we are going to try to win, but we know that we are in a different point, if you compare to Arsenal.”

While Amorim’s players are still learning his tactical system, the Portuguese coach himself is also adjusting to life in the spotlight of Old Trafford.

The weight of managing Manchester United has come as a surprise, even for a coach used to high-pressure environments.

“A little bit, because you don’t know how is life in this kind of club. So it’s always a surprise. I think I can manage that, but you have to do so much more than coach the team.”

“You improve and other things in yourself as a coach, you have to manage the time in a different way.”

“You have less time to prepare for the games, not just because you are playing after two days, but also because you have a lot to do.”