Ex-Man Utd striker Hernandez apologises for sexism

Former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez says he “deeply regrets” making the sexist remarks that led to him being fined and warned about his future conduct.

The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) said the 37-year-old, now with Liga MX side Chivas, made a series of statements on TikTok “promoting sexist stereotypes that are considered media violence and go against gender equality in sport”.

Hernandez said women are “failing” and “eradicating masculinity”.

“Don’t be afraid to be women, to allow yourselves to be led by a man,” said the former Mexico captain on social media.

In an apology posted on Instagram on Thursday, he said it was “never my intention” to “hurt or divide”.

“I deeply regret any confusion or discomfort that my recent words have caused,” added Hernandez, who won two Premier League titles during his five-year spell at United.

He said he was “listening, reflecting and committed to expressing myself with better clarity and sensitivity” and he would “take this opportunity to understand, grow and continue working to be a better version of myself”.

The original comments, which were made last weekend, were met with a backlash in Mexico.