Man Utd youngster Jack Fletcher banned for anti-gay slur

18-year-old handed six-game ban by FA
Incident occurred in under-21 Carabao Cup defeat to Barnsley
Player apologises and to undergo educational training

Manchester United youngster Jack Fletcher has been sanctioned by the The Football Association for using an anti-gay slur during a match in October.

The incident took place during United under-21s’ 5-2 defeat to Barnsley in the EFL Cup, when the 18-year-old was heard by the referee directing the term “gay boy” at an opponent.

Fletcher, the son of former United midfielder Darren Fletcher, received a six-game suspension. Two matches have already been served following the red card issued in the game, while the remaining four (non-first-team) matches are suspended as part of what the FA described as an “Aggravated Breach.”

Both the FA and the opposing player concluded Fletcher had no intention to be anti-gay.

United confirmed the teenager has apologised and said he did not intend to use the term as a homophobic insult.

“I am truly sorry for the offensive word that I used in the heat of the moment,” Fletcher said. “Despite the fact that I had no intention to use the term as a homophobic insult, I completely understand that such language is unacceptable and immediately apologised after the game.”

The club said Fletcher will strengthen his understanding of discriminatory language and its impact.

“In addition to his ongoing participation in regular academy programmes on diversity and inclusion, Jack will also take part in educational training through the FA,” a statement read.

“Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club. Since launching All Red All Equal in 2016, we have embedded equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do.”

Fletcher joined United from Manchester City in 2023 alongside his twin brother Tyler and has made three substitute appearances in the Premier League this season.

A social media post from Rainbow Devils, the club’s LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, welcomed the apology.

“We hope Jack learns from this and grows as a person and a player,” it said. “His immediate regret and guilty plea suggests that he will.”

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Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.