Former Newcastle winger Allan Saint-Maximin has terminated his contract with Liga MX side Club America, six months after signing for the Mexican club.
The 28-year-old, who joined Club America from Saudi side Al Ahli in August for around £10 million, made just 15 appearances for Andre Jardine's side before his sudden departure was confirmed on Saturday.
Club America expressed solidarity with Saint-Maximin when announcing his exit. "We reiterate our strong condemnation of any act of discrimination and/or violence that violates human dignity, both on and off the field," they said in a statement.
"We express our absolute solidarity with Allan Saint-Maximin and his family, who have the support of everyone who is part of this institution. Thank you so much for wearing our colours Allan Saint-Maximin."
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Earlier this week, the French-born winger claimed that his children have been the victims of racist abuse.
"The problem is not the colour of your skin, it's the colour of your thoughts," he wrote in a statement on Instagram.
"I'm being attacked, not a problem I grew up, learned to fight against attacks, whether they are concealed or frontal. But there's one thing I will never tolerate is my kids being picked up.
"Protecting my children is my priority and I will fight to make sure they are respected and loved, regardless of their background or colour of their skin.
"Hate and discrimination has no place in our society.
"I want people to understand that every human being is unique and precious and we should trerat each other with respect and dignity.
"I want my children to grow up in a world where they can be themselves and not have to deal with absurd, meaningless behaviours that are only meant to destroy and divide.
"So, to those who dared to attack my children, I tell you: you made a mistake. I will always fight to protect my family, and there is no person or threat that will frighten me."
He added: "The only person on this earth who frightens me is God. You have La Boca now, come and meet me."
Saint-Maximin was not part of the squad that beat Necaxa 2-0 on Saturday, which prompted the club to announce his decision.
Club America coach Andre Jardine said: “It’s regrettable that an act of racism occurred against his daughters, something that had already happened more than once. It was something he wouldn’t tolerate, and we condemn it."
He added: “Unfortunately, he went through that, and now we must demand action against racism because there is no place for it in the world.”
Topics: Allan Saint-Maximin, Newcastle United, Premier League
Jack Kenmare