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Unsurprisingly, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer backed Edinson Cavani after the forward was suspended for three matches.
The 33-year-old was suspended after the FA ruled that he “brought discredit” in an Instagram post following United’s 3-2 win at Southampton last month.
Cavani has also been fined £ 100,000 and must complete an in-person education course after choosing not to appeal the decision.
Speaking to the media for the first time since the ban was confirmed on New Year’s Eve, Solskjaer admitted that he expected Cavani to be sent off, but defended his player.
“When the charge came, you expected Edinson to be sanctioned,” Solskjaer said before United’s game against Aston Villa began. “One thing’s for sure, he’s not a racist, that’s for sure. There was no malice. I think his words were taken out of context, but he accepted them and we just want to move on.”
Cavani issued a statement after the ban was confirmed, saying: “Hello everyone, I don’t want to dwell on this uncomfortable moment for me.
“I want to share with you that I accept the disciplinary sanction knowing that I am alien to the customs of the English language, but I do not share the point of view.
“I apologize if I offended someone with an expression of affection towards a friend, nothing else was my intention. Those who know me know that my effort is to always seek the simplest happiness and friendship!
“I appreciate the countless expressions of support and affection. My heart is at peace because I know that I always expressed myself with affection according to my culture and way of life. I send you a sincere hug.”
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