Club issues strong statement as ex-United midfielder suffers vile racial abuse

Burnley have released a statement strongly condemning the disgusting racial abuse suffered by former Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri. Mejbri subjected to racial abuse Mejbri was the victim of racial abuse after Burnley’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Joao Pedro gave Chelsea an early lead but Wesley Fofana’s sending off in the 72nd minute gave Burnley a path back into the game. The visitors took their chance in stoppage time when Zian Flemming headed home a sublime corner-kick delivery from James Ward-Prowse, ensuring the spoils were shared. However, Burnley’s achievement was marred by the racist abuse directed at Mejbri following the final whistle. The Carrington academy graduate shared some of the messages he received on social media, while also calling on such people to educate themselves and their children. Burnley have also since released a statement, expressing their support for Mejbri and calling on the perpetrators to be punished. Burnley statement A statement from the Clarets reads, “Everyone at Burnley FC is disgusted by the online racist abuse directed at Hannibal following today’s Premier League fixture.” “There is no place for this in our society and we condemn it unreservedly. The Club continues to be unequivocal in its stance – we have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discrimination.” “The Club has reported the post to Instagram’s parent company, Meta, and expects strong support from them, together with the Premier League and the Police, and will work to ensure that the individual responsible is identified and investigated.” “Hannibal will receive the full backing from the Club and from the Burnley fans who we have already seen condemning the abuse.” “There is no room for racism.” Fofana suffered similarly vile abuse and, following Mejbri’s lead, exposed the messages on social media. In response, the Frenchman issued a powerful call for immediate and decisive action against those responsible. Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!