The incident occurred during Manchester United Under-21s’ 5-2 EFL Trophy defeat in Barnsley in October.
Jack Fletcher has been charged by the Football Association for breaching regulations.
Manchester United academy player Jack Fletcher has been suspended for six games by the Football Association after admitting homophobic abuse. Fletcher, the son of Manchester United legend Darren, was suspended and fined for breaching FA rules “including references to sexual orientation”.
A statement from the Football Association read: “An occurrence of misconduct – a non-standard case: Jack Fletcher of Manchester United FC. Barnsley FC v Manchester United FC Reserve – EFL Trophy – Tuesday 21 October 2025.”
“Breach of FA Rule E3. During the match, you are said to have behaved inappropriately and/or used abusive or insulting language, contrary to FA Rule E3.1.
“It is alleged that the breach of FA Regulation E3.1 is an ‘aggravated breach’ as defined in FA Regulation E3.2 because it contains a reference to sexual orientation, whether express or implied.
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“Jack Fletcher admitted the charges and opted for a paper hearing. Decision: Six match suspension, £1,500 fine, education order.”
The 18-year-old player, who admitted the charge, was given a red card at the time and was fined £1,500 and given a two-match ban. He was handed a further four match suspension after accepting a serious breach of FA Regulation E3.1. He played in three of those four games, with only non-first-team games being counted.
“I am truly sorry for the offensive language I used in the heat of the moment,” he said.
“While I did not intend to use this word as a homophobic insult, I fully understand that such language is unacceptable and apologized immediately after the match.
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“I want to be clear that this momentary loss of character is in no way reflective of my beliefs or values.”
A statement from United following the incident said: “Manchester United has been working with Jack to strengthen our understanding of discriminatory language and why it is harmful.
Jack Fletcher will be in Man United’s academy from 2023
“In addition to his continued participation in regular academy programs on diversity and inclusion, Jack will also take part in educational training through the FA.
“Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club.”
In response, the Rainbow Devils also released a statement. It read: “The Rainbow Devils welcome Manchester United’s statement and Jack Fletcher’s apology and repentance.
“Regardless of intent or connotation, homophobic words have no place in football or in society. Words matter and words hurt. Football should be a game where everyone feels safe and included. Education, meaningful consequences and a genuine commitment to learning from mistakes are key to turning incidents like this into an opportunity for growth and change.”
“Parents, teachers and football clubs all have a responsibility to teach young people right and wrong when it comes to all forms of discrimination. We hope Jack learns from this and grows as a person and player. His immediate remorse and plea of guilty suggests he will do so.”
