Manchester United star Marcus Rashford has preemptively responded to a tabloid’s attempt to publish a photo of him with an unnamed rapper, strongly denying any connection to the individual. The England international urged the media to focus on raising awareness about violent crime rather than targeting him.
Rashford’s Statement on Social Media
Rashford took to Instagram to address the situation before the tabloid could release the story:
“Been contacted today by a tabloid informing me that they plan to publish a photo of me with a rapper apparently taken over a year ago. I want to make it clear I have never seen this photo, I do not know this person, and I am not friends with him.”
The forward explained that, like most footballers, he frequently takes photos with fans and strangers but does not have the ability to conduct background checks on every individual he meets.
“Can I please urge the tabloids, rather than focusing on me, to use their platforms to help raise positive awareness on the many charities and individuals that work daily throughout the UK to tackle knife crime to prevent more families suffering tragic loss.”
Rashford’s Tribute to Jimmy Mizen
Rashford concluded his message by expressing sympathy for the family of Jimmy Mizen, a teenager tragically murdered in 2008.
- Who Was Jimmy Mizen?
- A 16-year-old boy who was killed in a bakery in South London after being struck with a glass dish.
- His killer, Jake Farhi, was convicted in 2009 and sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 14 years.
- Recent Developments:
- Farhi was released in 2023 and is now under investigation after reportedly releasing music under the stage name TEN, allegedly referencing Mizen’s murder. (Source: BBC)
- The Mizen Foundation:
- Set up by Jimmy’s parents, Margaret and Barry, to promote safer communities and tackle violent crime.
Key Takeaways
✅ Rashford strongly denied any connection with the individual in the photo.
✅ Criticized tabloids for focusing on him rather than highlighting serious societal issues.
✅ Expressed support for the Mizen Foundation and called for more efforts to prevent knife crime.
Final Thoughts
Marcus Rashford remains a respected figure off the pitch, known for his charity work and activism. His response highlights the media’s role in shaping public narratives and urges them to focus on real social issues rather than sensationalism.
FAQs
- What was the tabloid accusing Rashford of?
- The report aimed to publish a photo of Rashford with an unnamed rapper, implying an association.
- What did Rashford say in response?
- He denied knowing the individual and criticized tabloids for focusing on him instead of raising awareness on crime prevention.
- Who was Jimmy Mizen?
- A 16-year-old boy murdered in South London in 2008. His family later founded the Mizen Foundation to promote community safety.
- Why is Jimmy Mizen’s killer in the news again?
- Jake Farhi, released in 2023, is under investigation for allegedly releasing music referencing the murder.
- What does Rashford want the media to focus on?
- Raising awareness about knife crime and supporting charities that help prevent violent tragedies.
