AC Milan expresses shock as Mike Maignan leaves the field due to alleged racist abuse in Serie A win against Udinese

AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan experienced an unfortunate incident of alleged racist abuse during the team’s Serie A match against Udinese on Saturday night. In response, Maignan gestured towards the crowd and received support from his teammates as he walked off the pitch following a conversation with the referee. Despite the unsettling incident, Maignan returned, and his team ultimately secured a victory with a stoppage-time goal from Noah Okafor.

AC Milan has expressed their profound dismay after goalkeeper Mike Maignan faced alleged racist abuse during the Serie A match against Udinese on Saturday evening. The distressing incident led to a temporary suspension of the game when Maignan walked off the pitch. The occurrence took place in the first half, prompting the French goalkeeper to leave the field after a conversation with the referee, during which he appeared to indicate a section of the crowd.

Maignan subsequently proceeded down the tunnel but later returned after engaging in discussions with teammates and staff. The game resumed some minutes later following these developments. AC Milan’s statement reflects their strong disapproval of the incident and emphasizes their commitment to addressing and combating racism in football.

Milan issued a statement on social media expressing their strong stance against racism: “There is no place in our game for racism; we are appalled. We are with you, Mike.” Despite the distressing incident, Milan secured a late 3-2 victory with a goal from Noah Okafor.

Goalkeeper Mike Maignan revealed to DAZN that he experienced racist abuse, stating, “They made monkey noises, and it’s not the first time it’s happened to me.” Maignan, visibly upset, had to briefly leave the pitch but received support from teammates and staff during discussions in the changing room. Ultimately, the decision was made to return to the field and respond appropriately by winning the game.

Maignan admitted, “I really didn’t want to play anymore, but we’re a family, and I couldn’t leave my teammates like that.” The incident highlights the resilience and unity within the team in the face of adversity.

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Serie A, through its social media channels, conveyed a strong condemnation of any form of racism, stating, “Lega Serie A condemns any form of racism.” Milan followed up with another social media post, co-signed by goalkeeper Mike Maignan, emphasizing their renewed determination to win the game: “We came back out with a greater desire to win the game because the best response to racism is to win.” This message underscores the team’s commitment to confronting racism through resilience and success on the field.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek also found the back of the net for the Rossoneri, who continue to hold the third position in the Serie A table. They are currently six points behind Inter, who have a game in hand.