Minnesota United's Joseph Rosales banned three games by MLS for use of discriminatory language

Major League Soccer suspended Minnesota United defender Joseph Rosales for three games after he was found to have violated the MLS-MLSPA Joint Non-Discrimination Policy, the league announced.

During Minnesota's match against the Vancouver on April 27, Rosales and Whitecaps forward Emmanuel Sabbi engaged in a verbal altercation on the pitch. The league conducted an independent investigation into the incident, and found that the Honduras international used discriminatory language.

According to the league, reinstatement "following the suspension is contingent upon his participation in a restorative practices program."

Rosales denied the allegations in a statement posted on social media by MNUFC, but said he will not appeal or contest the league's findings or the punishment.

"I am addressing the recent three-game suspension issued by the league. I want to be clear: I did not use any discriminatory language," Rosales posted. "However, I acknowledge that my actions contributed to escalating tensions of the field. And for that, I sincerely apologize to the opposing player and to everyone affected.

"While I disagree with the league's decision to suspend me because I believe it was based on a misinterpretation, I respect their process and their commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment. I have always taken this situation seriously and am committed to doing everything I can to support a respectful and inclusive game."

The team offered support in a statement.

"The League concluded that Rosales used discriminatory language against an opposing player. While both MNUFC and Rosales acknowledge that the opposing player believed he heard discriminatory language, was negatively impacted and expressed his concern in good faith, Rosales adamantly denies using discriminatory language," Minnesota said in a statement. "After speaking extensively with Rosales and several members of our team, our club believes and supports him.

"Rosales is committed to participating in any steps the League recommends to continue strengthening and reinforcing a culture of respect and accountability across the league."

Multiple MLS players have been suspended under the league's Non-Discrimination Policy, including Philadelphia Union defender Kai Wagner and former New York Red Bulls forward Dante Vanzeir in 2023. Most recently, Nashville SC midfielder Patrick Yazbek was handed a two-game suspension for violating the policy in August 2024.

Rosales will miss Minnesota's games against the Houston Dynamo on May 14 and St. Louis City on May 17, as well as their U.S. Open Cup round of 16 match against St. Louis CITY SC on May 21.