Manchester United abandoned LGBTQ+ jacket initiative due to Noussair Mazraoui refusal before Everton game - triggering dressing room divide

The Red Devils were set to wear a special adidas jacket before Sunday's Premier League match at Old Trafford against Everton, according to The Athletic. However, those plans were dropped after Mazraoui refused to take part, citing his Muslim faith. The decision was then taken that no players would wear the outfit, so that Mazrouai was not singled out, which "not everyone" in the dressing room was happy with. Kit manufacturer adidas is also "disappointed" at the turn of events.

Premier League clubs were showing support for the LGBTQ+ community over the weekend through the Rainbow Laces campaign. Manchester United have previously worn customised kit in bid to promote the campaign, while stars such as Bruno Fernandes, Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire have all spoken out on the subject of inclusivity and the need for all the club's fans to feel included and respected.

United's LGBT fan group, Rainbow Devils, has responded in a statement: "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. Rainbow Devils will continue to work with Manchester United to support inclusivity, through the One Love initiative and others, as we all continue our work to ensure all LGBTQ+ people feel safe and welcome at Old Trafford, both on and off the pitch.”

Manchester United also issued a response to The Athletic, which read: "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. We demonstrate these principles through a range of activities, including support for our Rainbow Devils supporters’ club, and campaigns to celebrate our LGBTQ+ fans and combat all forms of discrimination."

The Rainbow Laces campaign has attracted plenty of headlines in recent days. Ipswich captain Sam Morsy refused to wear a Rainbow armband against Nottingham Forest at the weekend, citing his religious beliefs as the reason, with his club side issuing a statement supporting his decision. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace skipper Marc Guehi is set to hear from the Football Association after writing "Jesus loves you" on his rainbow captain's armband.