Manchester United backs Muslim player’s Noussair Mazraoui beliefs in rainbow jacket dispute

Manchester United stood by Moroccan defender Noussair Mazraoui after he declined to wear a rainbow-themed jacket meant to support the LGBTQ+ community during the Rainbow Laces campaign.

Mazraoui, a devout Muslim, cited his religious beliefs as the reason for his refusal, according to The Athletic.

In response, the club opted not to have any player wear the pride-themed tracksuit for the pre-match walk-out against Everton on Sunday, ensuring Mazraoui was not singled out. This decision, reportedly made just hours before the game, underscores United’s efforts to balance individual beliefs with team unity.

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For the past two years, Manchester United players have supported the Rainbow Laces campaign by warming up in pride-themed jerseys. However, this latest incident reflects the complexities faced by clubs in accommodating diverse personal and religious perspectives within their squads.

Mazraoui’s stance follows similar actions by other players. England and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi recently defied an FA reprimand by inscribing a religious message on his rainbow-colored captain’s armband, while Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy has twice declined to wear the armband, also citing his Muslim faith.