Guehi: Taking the knee has lost meaning

Manchester City defender Marc Guehi has sparked a national conversation by suggesting the anti-racism gesture of taking the knee may have lost its significance ^[1]. The Black player, who did not kneel before City’s Premier League clash with Ipswich, said the campaign remains important but questioned whether more impactful action is needed ^[3].

Guehi, one of six players to stand during the weekend’s ‘No Room For Racism’ initiative, admitted he hasn’t taken the knee for some time, opting instead to clap as a sign of respect ^[2]. He described the gesture as a societal issue rather than a football one, calling the sport a ‘beacon of hope’ in spreading the message ^[3].

He was joined by Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Rayan, Tyler Adams, and Issa Diop in remaining upright ^[1]. Leeds manager Daniel Farke defended Calvert-Lewin, saying he shows respect by standing, not kneeling.

The move comes amid growing criticism of the ritual’s longevity. Former players like Wilfried Zaha have previously called the gesture ‘degrading’, saying it undermines pride in Black identity ^[3]. Ivan Toney has accused the gesture of being performative, likening it to being used as ‘puppets’ ^[2].

The Premier League reintroduced the gesture in limited rounds in 2022, with players invited to participate during specific campaigns like Black History Month ^[1]. This year’s initiative spans two October matchweeks, with the league reiterating its commitment to tackling discrimination ^[3].

While some view the gesture as symbolic, others, including Guehi, believe it must evolve to remain meaningful ^[2]. Guehi said he hopes to work with the PFA and the league to move the campaign forward, according to ^[3], though this collaboration has not been confirmed. The story was first reported by Daily Mail and Mirror.