The football world has spoken about the sexuality of players and fans alike as the FIFA 2022 World Cup opening ceremony draws near. This is a hot topic, primarily as the host nation of Qatar is known for criminalizing same-sex relationships.
It has now been recently revealed that two of the Premier League teammates are in a gay relationship as they came out in the changing room to their teammates, the team knows their sexual preferences and don’t mind them being together.
Within the unnamed club, this relationship is open, but player privacy remains protected by everyone in the organization. However, there is a probability that the two players may decide to go public in the future. The report comes recently after another claim that a former England international who participated in the Premier League is also planning to comment.
The FIFA World Cup 2022, all set to happen in Qatar, has now become more of a platform for those who want to talk about respect for the sexual preferences of professional footballers, mainly due to restrictions in the strictly Muslim state.
Earlier this month, Qatar’s ambassador in the UK, warned same-sex couples not to kiss in public if traveling to the World Cup. Then last week, former Qatari footballer Khalid Salman told a German broadcaster that being gay is “haram” or forbidden in Arabic Law. World Cup ambassador Khalid Salman also caused outrage when he said being gay meant “mental damage.”
Fans from participating countries are also warned that they could face jail if they break the country’s strict moral code. That’s why the possibility of two active Premier League players talking about being gay is a hot topic for the LGBTQ+ community.
But they have decided not to speak out publicly, although no one is ashamed, and it could happen in the future,” a source informed.
However, players are focused on football and fear drawing attention from their performances on the pitch. They know they have a great platform and can make a massive difference to the community, but they’re also considering the potential impact on themselves, their teammates, and the club.
Meanwhile, Blackpool -Player Jake Daniels bravely came out publicly earlier this year and was well-received by his teammates. There are rumors of other gay players, but it is unforeseen if they will make public appearances while still active.
Discussions on this topic will continue at the World Cup, especially when thousands of spectators flock to Qatar to enjoy the event. All eyes will be on the issues LGBTQ+ people may face, and some are already reporting that some hotels are refusing LGBTQ accommodation.
