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Bernardo Silva has been charged by the Football Association following a controversial social media post regarding Manchester City teammate Benjamin Mendy.
Silva posted a tweet that appeared to compare Mendy’s appearance to a cartoon character who appears on the packaging of Conguitos, a brand of chocolate bar in Spain.
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A statement from the FA read: ”Bernardo Silva has been charged with misconduct for a breach of FA Rule E3 in relation to a social media post on 22 September 2019.
“It is alleged that the Manchester City player’s activity breaches FA Rule E3(1) as it was insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute.
“It is further alleged that the activity constitutes an “Aggravated Breach”, which is defined in FA Rule E3(2), as it included reference, whether expressed or implied, to race and/or colour and/or ethnic origin.”
Silva, 25, defended his actions and said: “Can’t even joke with a friend these days… you guys,” but anti-racism body Kick It Out condemned the initial tweet, saying racist stereotypes are never acceptable.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has also defended Silva, saying: “Bernardo is one of the loveliest people I’ve met in my life. He speaks four or five languages — that’s the best way to understand how open-minded he is.
“One of his best friends is Mendy. He’s like a brother. He took a picture of Benjamin when he was young and related it with this cartoon, quite similar for the image.”
Silva has until Oct. 9 to respond to the charge.