United's Cavani banned 3 matches for offensive social media post

Edinson Cavani was handed a three-match suspension, fined £100,000, and ordered to complete an education course because of a social media post he published after Manchester United's late November win over Southampton, the Football Association confirmed Thursday.

Cavani included the Spanish word "negrito" ("black") in an Instagram post in what he said "was intended as an affectionate greeting to a friend." United defended their striker at the time by saying there was "no malicious intent behind Edinson's message."

The 33-year-old Uruguayan will miss the upcoming matches against Aston Villa (Premier League), Manchester City (League Cup semifinal), and Watford (FA Cup third round).

"Despite his honest belief that he was simply sending an affectionate thank-you in response to a congratulatory message from a close friend, he chose not to contest the charge out of respect for, and solidarity with, the FA and the fight against racism in football," United wrote in a statement.

United added: "The club trusts that the independent regulatory commission will make it clear in its written reasons that Edinson Cavani is not a racist, nor was there any racist intent in relation to his post."

Cavani used the term after his brace helped United overturn a two-goal deficit to win 3-2 at Southampton. He moved to England in October after spending seven seasons with Paris Saint-Germain and has since scored four goals in all competitions.