Former Newcastle winger Allan Saint-Maximin stated that it was important for him to speak out after his children were subjected to racial abuse earlier this year in Mexico.
Saint-Maximin joined Major League Soccer side Charlotte in the summer, a move he described as a "family choice." He expressed that his family has always supported him throughout his career, and this move was a way to reciprocate that support. He has linked up with former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith, whom he described as a "straightforward guy."
Club America, where Saint-Maximin previously played, issued a statement expressing "absolute solidarity" with Saint-Maximin and his family. His teammates held up a "No to racism" banner before their game against Necaxa. Saint-Maximin clarified that the incident was not the fault of Club America, its players, or the Mexican people, whom he stated he loves and respects.
"It was not the fault of Club America," Saint-Maximin said. "I have nothing against them, the players or the Mexican people. I love the club. It was one of the best places I've been with my family. It's just some random people say some stuff and try to attack your family. You never really know who they support or why they do this, but when this affects your kids there are not many choices to take."
He explained that it was a difficult decision for him and his family, but he felt a responsibility to act, stating, "I always say I will never accept stuff like this." Saint-Maximin emphasized the importance of showing people, especially in his situation, that while he might lose many things, he will never accept such behavior.
Saint-Maximin joined Lens on a short-term deal in the second half of the previous season, contributing to their French Cup win and a second-place finish in Ligue 1. As one of Charlotte's two "designated players," the 29-year-old aims to establish a legacy under Dean Smith and help his teammates improve, while also entertaining the fans. "To see some robot play doesn't make sense to me," he added.