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Rabat – Morocco’s international football player Zakaria Aboukhlal has commented on criticism from fans following his decision to refuse to wear a pride-themed jersey during Sunday’s Ligue 1 match against Nantes.
French clubs’ kits have been carrying rainbow colors in a campaign reflecting support for the LGBTQ+ community.
However, several Toulouse FC players, including Aboukhlal, refused to wear the jersey.
In response to the criticism, Aboukhlal emphasized that he holds the “highest regard for every individual, regardless of their personal preferences, gender, religion or background.”
“This is a principle that cannot be emphasized enough,” he added.
Aboukhlal also stressed the importance of having his personal beliefs taken into account.
“Respect is a value that I hold in great esteem. It extends to others, but it also encompasses respect for my own personal beliefs. Hence, I don’t believe I am the most suitable person to participate in this campaign,” he said.
The football player, therefore, called on his fans and followers to respect his decision just “as we all desire to be treated with respect.”
In addition to Aboukhlal, four other Toulouse players informed their coach Philippe Montanier about their refusal to participate in the game, including Moussa Diarra, Fares Chaibi, Logan Costa, and Said Hamulic.
La Depeche du Midi said that the club attempted to convince some of the players to participate in the match, with Aboukhlal and Hamulic “firmly” refusing to take part.
