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Former Manchester City and Barcelona midfielder Yaya Touré has apologized for making an “inappropriate” joke on a WhatsApp group that has seen him withdraw from a charity game.
Touré, 37, was scheduled to participate in the UNICEF Soccer Aid game at Old Trafford on Sunday, but will no longer participate after sharing content with his teammates.
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Toure launched a statement on Twitter on Saturday he said: “I would like to apologize to everyone involved in Soccer Aid for an inappropriate joke that I deeply regret.
“It was intended as a joke, however, I did not take into account the feelings of the other participants. That said, I removed the jokes in minutes and immediately apologized to all members of the group.
“We come together for a good cause and this diverts the focus of the game, which is to bring everyone together to help children around the world.
“It’s sad to see an inappropriate joke that I made attracting attention, which should be completely devoted to the beauty of the charity game.
“Regardless of the circumstances, I want to take full responsibility. I am a grown man who should not participate in such jokes.”
The former Ivory Coast international appeared in the 2018 edition where he played alongside Eric Cantona, Edwin van der Sar and Usain Bolt.
A UNICEF spokesperson told Sky News: “Soccer Aid for UNICEF has discussed the above with the person involved and has decided not to continue participating in this year’s event.
“While it was an error in judgment, it was felt that the behavior did not align with the values of the event and its cause, and it was the right thing for him to step back from this year’s match.”
The match will be played behind closed doors for the first time due to the coronavirus pandemic with Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney directing England XI.
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