Chelsea have responded to a video clip featuring Conor Gallagher and a young black mascot, asserting that the footage has been misinterpreted.
They also condemned the subsequent abuse directed at the player stressing that it was “completely unacceptable”.
Conor Gallagher the racist pic.twitter.com/3wS9tf4Umu
— Henry Arrizo (@wizreddy) April 3, 2024
The clip, widely circulated on social media, depicts Gallagher apparently ignoring a high-five from the child in the tunnel before Chelsea’s match against Burnley.
However, the club insists that the incident has been taken out of context and emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Mauricio Pochettino defends Conor Gallagher over viral video involving young black mascot
Manager Mauricio Pochettino expressed his dismay at the abuse directed towards Conor Gallagher, emphasizing that such behavior was never the player’s intention.
Pochettino defended Gallagher’s character, describing him as a caring individual and urging an end to the online abuse directed at the footballer.
“It’s [the abuse] upset me so much,” said Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino.
He added: “No-one wants to do something like this, with this intention. I think he has many videos and photography with the mascots.
“When you play football, you are focusing to play, to start the game.
“I think people try to find things to create a mess and to abuse the people.
“I know Conor. I can speak for the people I know. Come on, that was never was his intention.”
Ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League clash with Manchester United, Pochettino reiterated his support for Gallagher and condemned the ease with which online abuse is propagated.
He called for a halt to such behavior and emphasized the sadness caused by baseless accusations against Gallagher.
The clip in circulation led to a deluge of abusive comments on Gallagher’s Instagram account, including accusations of racism.
Chelsea reiterated its stance against such behavior, re-indicating the misinterpretation of the incident and affirming its commitment to inclusivity.
Chelsea face Manchester United next in the Premier League
Meanwhile, Chelsea faces Manchester United in a crucial Premier League fixture, following a disappointing 2-2 draw against Burnley.
Despite Chelsea’s strong home record, Manchester United poses a formidable challenge, having secured only one victory in their previous encounters at Stamford Bridge.
Manchester United, under the management of Erik Ten Hag, are also grappling with defensive issues, as evidenced by their vulnerability to shots in recent matches.
Ten Hag faces scrutiny as his team seeks to improve their defensive solidity ahead of the clash with Chelsea.
The Dutchman’s team have faced more shots in the premier league and faced a whooping 31 shots over the weekend only Luton Town and Sheffield United have faced more in Europe’s top five leagues.
As both teams prepare to square off, the focus remains on the pitch, with Chelsea and Manchester United aiming to secure vital points in their pursuit of their respective objectives.
Amidst the competitive atmosphere, both clubs are united in their condemnation of online abuse, emphasizing the need for respect and inclusivity within the footballing community.
