AC Milan strongly condemn ‘unacceptable’ racist abuse aimed at Mike Maignan
AC Milan has issued a firm public statement condemning the racist social media abuse directed at goalkeeper Mike Maignan following his red card in a 3-0 UEFA Europa League loss to Bournemouth, reiterating their full solidarity with the French star.
Italian giants AC Milan have issued a firm public statement condemning the racist abuse directed at goalkeeper Mike Maignan on social media following his dismissal during Thursday’s 3-0 UEFA Europa League loss to Bournemouth.
The French shot-stopper received a straight red card in the 27th minute after pushing Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams in the face as both players prepared for a corner kick.
Following the match, Maignan took to social media to clarify that the contact was unintentional.
Nevertheless, the incident triggered a wave of abusive comments online, prompting an official response from the club.
Addressing the online harassment, AC Milan expressed unconditional backing for their star goalkeeper while reiterating that discrimination has no place in the sport.
“Following yesterday’s match against Bournemouth, Mike Maignan was the target of serious and unacceptable racist insults on social media,” the statement read.
“AC Milan firmly condemns every form of racism and discrimination, which have no place on or off the pitch. The club expresses its full solidarity and support to Mike.”
The club also called upon fans to remain composed and united despite the disappointing European result on the pitch.
“We must remain united, as Milanisti and as Italian football,” the statement continued. “We all want to win, but we must do it the right way, with dignity, mutual respect and class.”
This is not the first time Maignan has faced such hostility. In January 2024, he led his teammates off the pitch in Udine after being targeted with racist chants from the stands, causing a temporary suspension of the match.
