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Former Newcastle star Allan Saint-Maximin has left Mexican outfit Club America by mutual consent after alleging that his children were the victims of racist abuse.
Saint-Maximin, 28, who spent four years at Newcastle between 2019 and 2023, revealed earlier this week that his family had been targeted.
In a heartbreaking post on Instagram, the winger said: ‘The problem isn’t skin colour, it’s the colour of people’s thoughts.
‘I’m not bothered by attacks. I’ve grown up, I’ve learned to fight back against attacks, whether they’re subtle, hidden, or overt. But there’s one thing I will never tolerate: attacks on my children.
‘Protecting my children is my priority, and I will fight with all my might to ensure they are respected and loved, regardless of their background or skin colour. Hate and discrimination have no place in our society.’
He continued: ‘I want people to understand that every human being is unique and precious, and that we must treat each other with respect and dignity.
‘I want my children to grow up in a world where they can be themselves and where they don’t have to endure this absurd and senseless behavior that only aims to destroy and divide.
‘So, to those who dared to attack my children, I say this: you made a mistake. I will always fight to protect my family, and there is no person or threat that will frighten me. The only person on this earth who frightens me is God. You have La Boca now, come and meet me.’
When announcing his departure, Club America expressed their support for the former Newcastle star as they added: ‘We reiterate our strong condemnation of any act of discrimination and/or violence that violates human dignity, both on and off the field.
‘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.’
Club America coach Andre Jardine added that it was a ‘real shame’ to lose a player of Saint-Maximin’s calibre.
‘Regarding Maximin, he’s a fantastic player, he has the ability to play in any league in the world. We wish him all the best,’ he said.
Saint-Maximin, who has also played for Al-Ahli and Fenerbahce since leaving Newcastle, made 15 appearances for Club America after joining in August, scoring three goals and adding two assists.
Daily Mail Sport understands Saint-Maximin had drawn attention from several English clubs as news emerged that was he was set to depart.
However, the 28-year-old looks increasingly likely to join French side Lens, with talks advancing today.
The Frenchman became a fan favourite at Newcastle after joining from Nice in 2019, and he went on to play 124 times for the club before he moved to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli for a fee of around £23million in 2023.
