Manchester City Women have reported the racist and misogynistic abuse directed towards their star player, Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw, to the Greater Manchester Police. The offensive remarks emerged following the team's Women's Super League (WSL) defeat to Arsenal last Sunday. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with Manchester City Women's manager Gareth Taylor and club boss Pep Guardiola among those speaking out against the abuse.
Shaw, who has been instrumental for Manchester City with an impressive tally of 86 goals, missed Thursday's League Cup semi-final victory over Arsenal to prioritize her mental well-being. The decision to exclude her from the match underscores the club's commitment to supporting Shaw through this difficult time. It remains uncertain whether she will be available for selection during Manchester City's upcoming FA Cup clash against Leicester on Sunday.
Gareth Taylor confirmed Shaw's return to training but emphasized that her mental health remains the club's priority. In his words:
"Bunny's back with us today. She's okay and trained with the team, which is good, so that's it. I've spoken to her. Respectfully, I'm not going to share that." – Gareth Taylor
Taylor expressed his disgust over the abuse and reiterated that such behavior has no place in football or any aspect of life:
"I don't think we want to give any more air time to this really bad issue she's had to suffer with. There's no place for it at all in…I was going to say in the game, but in any walk of life. Anyone saying the opposite of that, there's just no place for it at all in anything we do." – Gareth Taylor
The Greater Manchester Police have initiated an investigation into the abuse aimed at Shaw. The incident highlights broader societal issues, as noted by Pep Guardiola, who remarked on the global nature of such discrimination:
"We would be lucky if this was just in world football. Unfortunately it's in the whole entire world," – Pep Guardiola
Guardiola further criticized divisive rhetoric, pointing out:
"Look to the politicians. What they say about this country is better than the other ones, or the other ones are not important, and all the people have to live [like this]." – Pep Guardiola
The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) has also weighed in, stating that such abuse has tangible consequences for those affected. Kick It Out chief operating officer Hollie Varney shared a similar sentiment, expressing her disgust at the treatment Shaw endured.
Despite the challenges, Manchester City Women remain steadfast in their support for Shaw. Taylor assured that they would provide her with whatever assistance she requires:
"It's not acceptable; never will be and never should be. We'll support Bunny in the right way, whatever that support looks like." – Gareth Taylor
The incident surrounding Shaw reflects a persistent issue not only within sports but also across various sectors worldwide. Manchester City Women’s prompt action and their prioritization of Shaw's well-being send a powerful message against intolerance and discrimination.
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