AC Milan condemn ‘unacceptable’ racist online abuse directed at Mike Maignan

AC Milan have issued a strong statement condemning the online racist abuse targeted at goalkeeper Mike Maignan following his red card in Thursday’s 3-0 UEFA Europa League defeat to Bournemouth, according to Football Italia.​

The France international was sent off in the 27th minute for pushing Tyler Adams in the face before a corner. Maignan clarified on social media on Friday that the gesture was unintentional. However, the incident prompted severe online harassment, prompting the Italian club to respond publicly via an official statement reported by MilanPress.

​“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 added: “We must remain united, as Milanisti and as Italian football. We all want to win, but we must do it the right way, with dignity, mutual respect and class.”