FridayOL

PETALING JAYA: Manchester United winger Amad Diallo has addressed a viral video showing him making an offensive gesture towards fans in Malaysia, explaining he reacted to verbal abuse directed at his mother. The incident occurred after Manchester United's recent pre-season friendly match in Kuala Lumpur.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Diallo clarified his actions, stating he felt compelled to defend his family after experiencing unacceptable behaviour. He acknowledged the gesture was inappropriate but emphasized the context surrounding it.

“Last night, following the Manchester United game in Kuala Lumpur, I was subjected to unacceptable verbal abuse directed towards my mother,” Diallo wrote. “I understand my reaction was not ideal, and I want to sincerely apologise for any offence caused. However, I felt the need to protect my family from hurtful and disrespectful comments.”

The video quickly circulated online, sparking widespread discussion and criticism. Many fans expressed disappointment with Diallo's response, while others voiced support for his decision to defend his family.

Manchester United has yet to officially comment on the incident. However, the club is likely to be aware of the situation and may be conducting an internal review. This incident highlights the challenges faced by players when dealing with fan behaviour, particularly when family members are involved.

Diallo, who is on loan at Manchester United, is a highly regarded young talent. The club has high hopes for his future and will likely want to ensure the situation is resolved amicably. His actions could have repercussions, potentially affecting his relationship with the club and its supporters.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has also indicated it will be investigating the incident to determine whether any fans violated stadium regulations or engaged in unacceptable behaviour. They are committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all attendees at football matches.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respectful behaviour from fans and the need to protect players and their families from abuse. Diallo's statement offers a glimpse into the pressures faced by young athletes and the difficult decisions they must make in challenging circumstances.

The club and Diallo now face the task of managing the fallout from this incident and ensuring it doesn't detract from the team's preparations for the upcoming season. The focus will undoubtedly be on restoring goodwill and demonstrating a commitment to upholding the values of fair play and respect.