Manchester United’s Edinson Cavani has been charged by the Football Association for a social media post containing a Spanish phrase that is offensive in some contexts.
Cavani sent the message after scoring United’s winner at Southampton on 29 November.
The 33-year-old subsequently deleted the post and apologised when the meaning that could be attached was pointed out.
The striker could be banned for three matches if he is found guilty.
An FA statement, with reference to new guidelines agreed in the summer, said the post was alleged to be “insulting and/or abusive and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute”.
It is also alleged “that the comment constitutes an aggravated breach” which “included reference, whether express or implied, to colour and/or race and/or ethnic origin”.
Cavani has until Monday, 4 January to provide a response to the misconduct charge which United say they will consider, but repeated their message that there was no malicious intent behind the forward’s post.
“Manchester United and all of our players are fully committed to the fight against racism and we will continue to work with the FA – along with other governing bodies and organisations, and through our own campaigns – in that regard,” said United in response to the charge.
“We note the FA decision today to charge Edinson Cavani for his social media reply to a friend’s message of congratulations following the Southampton game.
“Edinson and the club were clear that there was absolutely no malicious intent behind the message, which he deleted and apologised for as soon as he was informed that it could have been misconstrued.
“The player and the club will now consider the charge and respond to the FA accordingly.”
Cavani issued an apology shortly after posting the message on Instagram following United’s win on 29 November.
“It was intended as an affectionate greeting to a friend, thanking him for his congratulations after the game,” said the former Napoli and Paris St-Germain striker.
“The last thing I wanted to do was cause offence to anyone.
“I am completely opposed to racism and deleted the message as soon as it was explained that it can be interpreted differently.”
