During a tense Championship match at Deepdale, tensions flared as Hannibal Mejbri, a former Manchester United midfielder now with Burnley, reported an alleged racist comment made by Preston's Milutin Osmajic. The incident unfolded in the second half of the game and was promptly brought to the attention of referee Andrew Kitchen. The Football Association is now investigating the matter following the official complaint by Mejbri and Burnley FC.
Hannibal did not shy away from speaking out. He took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to express his stance on the incident.
"I will not be silent about what happened today." – Hannibal Mejbri
He emphasized his commitment to challenging racism within sports and society.
"I will always call out racism whenever I hear or see it. That is the only way we change as a sport and a society." – Hannibal Mejbri
He described the alleged abuse as "disgusting" and asserted his resolve against experiencing such behavior on the field.
"I am a strong person but nobody should have to experience this disgusting abuse on the pitch." – Hannibal Mejbri
In response, Burnley Football Club released a statement acknowledging the situation and confirming that they reported the issue to match officials both during and after the contest. Burnley's manager, Scott Parker, reportedly approached the referee immediately following the final whistle amid chaotic scenes.
Meanwhile, Preston North End also addressed the allegations brought forth by Hannibal and Burnley FC. In a formal statement, Preston conveyed that Osmajic has categorically denied making any racist comments during the game.
"Milutin Osmajic has strongly refuted the claims of a comment made towards Hannibal Mejbri in a post-match meeting with today's match officials." – Preston club statement
The match itself concluded in a goalless draw, with neither team managing to secure a victory. Despite the stalemate, it was the alleged incident of racial abuse that overshadowed the game's outcome, drawing attention across the football community.
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