Diego Mendoza issues statement after Leeds United midfielder Weston McKennie controversy
Diego Mendoza, the friend of Weston McKennie, has issued a statement after the Leeds United midfielder was subject to hatred online.
It's understood, via the Daily Mail [26 April], that he hosted a Twitter space after the 1-1 draw against Leicester City and said that putting in efforts is not the style of the American and that he regrets moving to Elland Road.
This saw some people send abusive messages to McKennie, which saw Mendoza coming to his defence and completely distancing his friend from what were his personal views.
He wrote on Instagram, "When your friend continues to constantly receive hate and they use your social media and relationship to him to bait you to deliver racist, mean messages, you speak up to defend him.
"I'm aware I might have made comments based on my personal opinions that fans twisted and made seem as if they were his true feelings. They're not.
"I regret ever responding to negativity because it is beneath me but I don't regret defending my friend from the unnecessary hate.
"It will always be out of love. Finish strong, friend, and see you soon."
Needs to be careful
Mendoza has often made statements from the point of view of McKennie so one can understand why he could've been taken out of context.
There's a clear reason why the American midfielder was so upset as he was being targeted for something he has not even said.
While his friend has issued a statement, the harm has already been done and perhaps next time he'll think twice before issuing such strong opinions.
For fans abusing McKennie, it's completely out of line and it's fine for him to regret moving to Elland Road even if that is indeed the case.
He joined under the pretext of working under Jesse Marsch and while his performances haven't been good enough, there's a reason he's only on loan.
Whoever the manager is ahead of next season will now make the decision whether or not to sign him on a permanent basis.