Ramadan: Muslim World Reacts As Mahamadou Diawara Dumps France U19 Team to Continue Fasting

• Mahamadou Diawara has reportedly left the France U19 team camp due to his religious beliefs
• The Olympique Lyon midfielder was called up for the forthcoming UEFA European qualifiers
• An FFF framework states that training schedules would not be modified for players observing Ramadan

The football world woke up to news on Thursday, March 21, that midfielder Mahamadou Diawara had left the French Under-19 squad after disagreeing with the new regulations due to his religious beliefs.

Muslim faithful around the world are observing Ramadan and French football authorities earlier this year stated that the training program will not be modified for those who are fasting.

According to the FFF Framework, Ramadan, which began on March 11, must therefore not disrupt the training courses of the French teams.

It was gathered that all players invited to the French U19 squad were informed about the 'clause', ESPN reports.

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Olympique Lyon midfielder, Diawara, was first called up but he was replaced after he chose to carry on with his fast.

The situation degenerated into a controversy and Muslim faithful around the world have continued to react.

One said:

"But a football federation like France should respect everyone’s religious beliefs. France has had lots of Muslim stars like Benzema, Zidane, Pogba, Kante, and a whole lot."

"Good move by the player for dumping the team."

Another clarified:

"He wasn't sent home he left cause he couldn't keep up with the new regulations."

A fan posited:

"I'm deeply concerned about this news. It's important for athletes to have the freedom to practice their religious beliefs, including during their international duties. Discrimination in any form has no place in sports or society."

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The Nigerian internationals joined other Muslim faithful from across the world in the holy land.

Musa, who is a devout Muslim, took to his official social media handles to wish his followers a special celebration. He wrote: "Ramadan Mubarak".