Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has sent an emotional message to England trio Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho following the racist abuse they received recently. Saka, Rashford and Sancho all missed penalties in the Three Lions ‘ shootout defeat in the Euro 2020 final and were targeted on social media in the aftermath of the agonising loss.
Edouard Mendy said: “Football is the sport that brings us together and makes us live incredible emotions together. Behind each player, there is a team, a club, a country, a family and supporters that we want to make proud, whatever our origins. But racism should not exist, either in football or in society. We cannot tolerate this kind of behaviour, and we must continue to fight it. Marcusrashford, Sanchooo10 and Bukayosaka87 I sincerely want to bring you and your families my support and tell you how proud you can be. You guys have been and keep being a role model and a true inspiration for millions of children around the world. We are together (praying emoji).”
Mendy is not alone in showing their support for Saka, Rashford and Sancho, with Arsenal posting a statement on the club’s website on Monday, less than 24 hours after the abuse.
Arsenal said: “Last night, we saw Bukayo Saka reach the Euro 2020 final at the age of 19 years old. Bukayo has been with us since he was seven and the whole club couldn’t have been prouder to see him represent England throughout the tournament. You could feel it right across the club. Last night we witnessed the leadership and character we’ve always known and loved in Bukayo. However, this feeling of pride quickly turned to sorrow at the racist comments our young player was subjected to on his social media platforms after the final whistle. Once again, we are sad to have to say we condemn the racism of a number black players. This cannot continue and the social media platforms and authorities must act to ensure this disgusting abuse to which our players are subjected on a daily basis stops now. We have processes in place internally at Arsenal to ensure our players are supported both emotionally and practically on this issue but sadly there is only so much we can do. Our message to Bukayo is: hold your head high, we are so very proud of you and we cannot wait to welcome you back home to Arsenal soon.”
