England players have expressed unease about being drawn into political debates at this summer's World Cup in North America, according to the chief of the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA). Maheta Molango revealed that senior figures, including captain Harry Kane, have told him they do not want to be used as spokespeople for political issues.
The tournament, to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is already attracting attention over non-footballing matters. Groups have raised concerns about Donald Trump's travel bans, immigration crackdowns, and military actions against Iran and Venezuela, casting doubt over the involvement of some nations.
Molango told Sky News that players are socially conscious and understand their platform, but feel it is unfair to be expected to speak for governments or governing bodies. "Some of them felt that in the past, and we've seen that, for example, in Qatar, some of them basically were hung out to dry," he said.
At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, England players and then-manager Gareth Southgate were repeatedly asked about human rights and LGBTQ+ issues. The team faced a potential booking for wearing rainbow armbands. Earlier, at Euro 2020, their decision to take the knee led to clashes with MPs.
Molango called on government officials to field such questions instead of placing the burden on players. "Why should they turn into spokespeople for governments or for governing bodies that in reality should be the ones taking the lead?" he asked.
