Ruben Amorim explains why Manchester United refused to wear LGBT+ support jackets

Ruben Amorim revealed that the solidarity among Manchester United players was key to the decision not to wear jackets featuring rainbow symbols in support of the LGBT+ community ahead of the team’s victory over Everton on Sunday.

Details. The gesture conflicted with the religious beliefs of Noussair Mazraoui, prompting the rest of the Manchester United players to stand by him as they took to the field.

“This was a collective decision by the players, as it should be. There are three complex aspects here. First, there are the values of the club. There’s no doubt about what this club believes in and fights for. Then there’s religion, which must be respected. It’s part of our values to respect others’ beliefs. And third, there’s group solidarity. I won’t leave Nouss alone; we are a team. Most players believe in something different, but when they saw one person left standing alone, they chose to stand together,” said Ruben Amorim.

• Read also: Mazraoui refused to wear LGBT-support jacket: how did the team react?

Context. Before the match against Everton, Manchester United players were expected to wear special jackets in support of the LGBT+ community. Noussair Mazraoui declined to wear the jacket due to his religious beliefs. His teammates decided to back him by also refraining from wearing the jackets, a decision that sparked widespread debate.