England’s World Cup this summer is littered with political issues, but players have made it clear they do not want to be used as spokespeople.
England star Harry Kane has had to face questions over non-football matters in the past (Image: UEFA via Getty Images)
England players have made it clear they do not want to be drawn into any politics surrounding this summer’s North American World Cup.
The tournament is once again attracting attention for issues not necessarily related to soccer. This poses a moral dilemma for certain countries, which may want to participate but be forced to take a stand. Groups are taking issue with President Donald Trump’s travel ban and immigration crackdown, as military action against Iran and Venezuela raises questions about their involvement.
Key figures from various teams, including England, have previously been asked to comment on topics unrelated to football. National associations often take the lead in important decisions, putting them in a difficult position.
And PFA president Maheta Molango admitted that players, including Harry Kane, had come to him and made it clear they did not want to be forced out as the country’s spokesperson. This has always been the case.
read more: Cristiano Ronaldo’s £61m private jet leaves Saudi Arabia as Iran conflict escalatesread more: Qatar Football Association threatens to take drastic action in ‘Finalissima’ clash between Spain and Argentina
Make mirrors your first choice. Click here to enable or add us as a preferred source in your Google search settings
“We’re talking about smart people, people who are socially conscious, people who understand that they don’t live in a bubble, people who understand that they have a platform and use that platform to try to make a better world and influence people,” he told Sky News.
“But what some of them have told me is that they feel it’s a little unfair why they have to turn into a spokesperson for a government or governing body that should actually be in charge when they have a platform. I think some of them have felt that way in the past, and we’ve seen some of them basically hung out to dry in Qatar, for example.”
“Players are being asked to be political spokespeople, but that’s not who they are,” Molango added, calling on government officials to answer such questions and not put the problem elsewhere.
The North American World Cup attracts a lot of political attention (Image: FIFA via Getty Images)
Join us on Facebook! For the latest news, analysis and more on our Mirror Football Facebook page
At the last World Cup, hosted by Qatar, several of England’s star players and then-manager Gareth Southgate were forced to discuss political issues. Both their human rights record and attitude toward the LGBTQ community were criticized.
England were asked if their captain would wear a rainbow armband amid fears of a booking. A few years ago, during the postponed Euro 2020, which was largely held on home soil, the team’s decision to consistently take a knee led to a clash with MPs.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive Mirror Football content every day. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check it out whenever you like. If you are interested, please read our privacy notice.
