French winger Allan Saint-Maximin has revealed that he left Mexican club Club América after his children were subjected to racist abuse while attending school in Mexico.
The 29-year-old, who now plays for Charlotte FC, said he decided to speak publicly about the incident because he believes discrimination should never be accepted, particularly when children are involved.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Saint-Maximin said his children experienced an incident at school during his time at Club América, although he did not disclose specific details about what happened.
He said he explained to his children that the treatment they experienced was unacceptable and that they understood the situation was not normal.
Saint-Maximin had previously addressed discrimination in an Instagram post in January, writing that “hatred and discrimination have no place in our society.” The post attracted more than 159,000 likes, including messages of support from his former Newcastle United teammates Kieran Trippier and Joelinton.
Club América Supports Player and Family
Saint-Maximin said the incident was particularly difficult because it involved his children, although he acknowledged that racism can occur in different parts of the world.
He stressed that his decision to leave was not a criticism of Club América, saying the club, its players and Mexican people were not responsible for what happened.
Club América publicly expressed its support for Saint-Maximin and his family.
His teammates also showed their solidarity by displaying a “No to racism” banner before a match against Necaxa.
Saint-Maximin said he had enjoyed his time at the club and described it as one of the best places he had experienced with his family.
However, the father of four said his children’s wellbeing ultimately influenced his decision to leave.
He said the situation presented a difficult choice for his family but that he could not accept discrimination directed at his children.
Family Influenced Move to Charlotte FC
After leaving Mexico, Saint-Maximin joined Lens on a short-term deal.
He helped the French club win the French Cup for the first time in its 120-year history and finish second in Ligue 1.
Despite receiving several offers during the summer, he eventually chose Major League Soccer side Charlotte FC, describing the move as a decision made largely with his family in mind.
Saint-Maximin said his family had followed him throughout his career and that the move to the United States was therefore more of a family decision.
At Charlotte FC, the French winger has reunited with former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith.
He said he hopes to build a lasting legacy at the club, help his teammates improve and continue entertaining supporters with his creative style of play.
Saint-Maximin also said he wants to remain authentic as a footballer, adding that he does not want to become a player who simply follows a predetermined style.
Source: PUNCH
