Devout Christian footballer Marc Guehi, who has “grown up loving God”, could face an English Football Association (FA) charge after writing ‘I love Jesus’ on his rainbow armband, worn by players across football to mark Stonewall‘s Rainbow Laces campaign.
The defender opted to scribble to three-word statement on his armband during Crystal Palace‘s draw at home against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.
Rules allow a number of ‘initiative slogans/emblems’, such as Rainbow Laces, but forbid ‘political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images.’
Now, according to ESPN, Guehi could face backlash from the FA, as another law states that captains ‘must wear an armband which is simple and conforms to the requirements of Law 4 relating to slogans, statements, images and advertising.’
The outlet claim that Guehi’s decision to write on the armband – aimed to support LGBTQ+ issues in the sport – could be seen as ‘an aggravating factor’.
Guehi is a devout Christian and previously spoke on how his faith still plays a major role in his football career.
Speaking to The Athletic, he said: ‘I’ve grown up loving God and when I have had the chance I still go to church with my family, and my faith is definitely a big part of my life.
‘Faith is everything that I’m involved with, really; even in football, where I’m trying to be a role model and show God’s graciousness and God’s glory through my life.’