Milan have condemned the racist abuse aimed at Mike Maignan on social media following his red card in Thursday’s 3-0 Europa League defeat at Bournemouth.
According to MilanPress, the club released an official statement on Friday afternoon, after the goalkeeper was targeted online in the hours after the game.
“Following yesterday’s match against Bournemouth, Mike Maignan was the target of serious and unacceptable racist insults on social media,” the statement read. “AC Milan firmly condemns every form of racism and discrimination, which have no place on or off the pitch. The club expresses its full solidarity and support to Mike.”
Maignan was sent off in the 27th minute for pushing Tyler Adams in the face as Bournemouth prepared to take a corner. Marcus Tavernier converted the resulting penalty, and the hosts went on to win comfortably against 10 men.
BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 22: Mike Maignan of AC Milan is shown a red card by Referee Vassilis Fotias after a foul during the UEFA Europa League 2026/27 League Phase MD3 match between AFC Bournemouth and AC Milan at Bournemouth Stadium on October 22, 2026 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Milan call for unity after Maignan abuse
The France international had explained on social media earlier on Friday that the gesture was not intentional.
It is not the first time Maignan has suffered racist abuse. In January 2024 he led his teammates off the pitch at Udine after being targeted from the stands, briefly halting the game.
The club also appealed to supporters frustrated by Thursday’s result to direct that frustration properly.
“We must remain united, as Milanisti and as Italian football,” the statement continued. “We all want to win, but we must do it the right way, with dignity, mutual respect and class.”