LA Galaxy condems racist abuse aimed at winger Joseph Paintsil
The Ghanaian suffered derogatory language during Galaxy's match against LAFC
LOS ANGELES — MLS club LA Galaxy condemned the racist abuse fans aimed at Ghanaian winger Joseph Paintsil following the team’s rivalry match against LAFC. A commenter on one of Paintsil’s Instagram posts called him a monkey and criticized his performance.
Paintsil joined Galaxy from Belgian Pro League club KRC Genk in a $9.23 million deal. The Ghanaian is red hot since touching down in the United States, with two goals and two assists in seven Galaxy appearances.
The comment came after LAFC’s 2-1 win over Galaxy. Paintsil completed two dribbles down the right wing, completed 28 of 31 (90%) passes, and attempted two shots.
Paintsil shared the comment on his Instagram story. The comment reads “Mon key couldn’t do anything today,” with a laughing emoji at the end.
"LA Galaxy forward Joseph Painstil was the victim of a racist social media incident following Saturday's match against LA FC. The club stands with Joseph and anyone who has suffered racist abuse through social media and anywhere else," wrote LA Galaxy in a statement on social media,” LA Galaxy wrote in an official club statement.
“The incident was immediately reported to the Major League Soccer. We are working with the MLS to ensure Joseph has all the resources and support he needs at this time. There is no place for racism in our community, in our league, or anywhere else in society."
Paintsil figures to do more damage as the Major League Soccer standings begin to unfold. He’s a lightning-quick winger down the right flank that stretches the pitch for Galaxy and allows him to either attack players in isolation or force players to help and cause huge rifts.
Paintsil has won nine caps for Ghana, including three appearances at the recent African Cup of Nations. He chipped in with one assist in Ghana’s 2-2 draw with Mozambique.