Edinson Cavani: Manchester United star apologises for post and says he is 'completely opposed' to racism
The post was made after a follower had congratulated the Uruguayan for scoring two goals in Manchester United's 3-2 win.
Monday 30 November 2020 16:42, UK
Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani has said he is "completely opposed to racism" as he apologised for a social media post he made at the weekend.
Cavani could face a minimum three-match ban over the post, which he made following his side's dramatic victory against Southampton.
The Football Association is investigating and might take action if it deems the Instagram post was offensive.
The message, which was later deleted, was made after a follower had congratulated the Uruguayan for scoring two goals in United's 3-2 win.
Cavani had inspired his team's Premier League comeback over Southampton at St Mary's Stadium on Sunday afternoon after coming on as a substitute.
United has stressed that a term used in the posting was done so in an affectionate manner and has different connotations in South America, where Cavani is from.
Cavani said on Monday: "The message I posted after the match on Sunday was intended as an affectionate greeting to a friend, thanking him for his congratulations after the game.
"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. I would like to sincerely apologise for this.
In a statement, Manchester United said: "It is clear to us that there was absolutely no malicious intent behind Edinson's message and he deleted it as soon as he was informed that it could be misconstrued.
"Edinson has issued an apology for any unintentional offence caused. Manchester United and all of our players are fully committed to the fight against racism."
The FA issued guidelines ahead of this season clamping down on racist and discriminatory language and behaviour.
Offences on social media carry a minimum three-game ban. Deleting an inappropriate post does not necessarily prevent any possible action by the football authorities if it decides an offence was made.
Manchester City's Bernardo Silva and Tottenham's Dele Alli were both suspended for one match last season after posts that breached FA guidelines.