The Uruguayan has received a three-match ban for using a Spanish phrase that is considered offensive in some contexts on social media
Edinson Cavani will also be fined £100,000 and must complete face-to-face education. Cavani chosed not to contest the FA’s charge.
“A comment posted on the Manchester United FC striker’s Instagram page was insulting, abusive, improper and brought the game into disrepute contrary to FA Rule E3.1,” said the FA in a statement.
“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.”
The Manchester United striker included the phrase in a post following his team’s victory at Southampton on November 29th.
Cavani subsequently deleted the post and offered an apology on his Instagram.
“It was intended as an affectionate greeting to a friend, thanking him for his congratulations after the game,” said the striker.
“The last thing I wanted to do was cause offence to anyone.”
“I am completely opposed to racism and deleted the message as soon as it was explained that it can be interpreted differently.”
Manchester United also issued a statement:
“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.”
“Despite his honest belief that he was simply sending an affectionate thank-you in response to a congratulatory message from a close friend, he chose not to contest the charge, out of respect for, and solidarity with, the FA and the fight against racism in football.”
