Man Utd internal discord as Adidas fume at U-turn on LGBTQ+ jacket plans when one player refused

The decision to scrap the initiative entirely was made just hours before kick-off to maintain team unity, ensuring Mazraoui would not be singled out.

Sources close to the matter revealed that not everyone in the dressing room supported the collective decision to abandon the jackets.

Adidas, who have a £900m sponsorship deal with United, were reportedly "disappointed" by the development.

The team's decision to collectively abandon the jackets was made to maintain squad unity, though The Athletic reports this caused tension among players who disagreed with the approach.

Mazraoui had previously faced similar controversy during his time at Bayern Munich, where supporters criticised his stance on LGBTQ+ matters.

The Morocco international's decision affected United's traditional participation in the Rainbow Laces campaign, as the club had worn similar pride-themed apparel in each of the previous two seasons.

Captain Bruno Fernandes still wore the rainbow armband during the match against Everton, which United won 4-0.

The Rainbow Devils supporters' group said they were informed of the change "shortly before the game" and acknowledged the player's right to his beliefs while expressing concern about the wider impact.

The Rainbow Devils, United's official LGBTQ+ supporters' club, expressed "great disappointment" over the incident in a strongly-worded 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," the group said.

They voiced particular concern about "what kind of negative effect this incident might have on any player at the club who may be struggling with their sexuality."

The supporters' group pledged to continue working with Manchester United on inclusivity initiatives, including the One Love campaign.

They emphasised their ongoing commitment to ensuring "all LGBTQ+ people feel safe and welcome at Old Trafford, both on and off the pitch."

The group noted they were aware of the player's identity but chose not to single them out to avoid overshadowing other positive initiatives at the club.

Manchester United released an official statement addressing the controversy, emphasising their commitment to diversity while acknowledging players' religious rights.

"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," the club stated.

The statement added that "players are entitled to hold their own individual opinions, particularly in relation to their faith."

The incident follows similar situations across the Premier League during this year's Rainbow Laces campaign.

Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy declined to wear a rainbow armband, citing his Muslim faith.

Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi faced FA scrutiny after writing "Jesus loves you" on his rainbow armband, though he ultimately avoided formal action.

The Premier League's Rainbow Laces campaign runs from November 29 to December 5, promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport.