Edinson Cavani accepted a 3-match ban imposed by the Football Association on him for racist abuse, and said he now feels relieved even though he does not agree with the association's interpretation of the word he used and was also penalized for it with a fine of 100,000 pounds ($ 136,000) for it.
The 33-year-old Uruguay striker used the word "nigger" in a comment on Instagram after the 3-2 win over Southampton on November 29, before he apologized for the incident.
Cavani then said the word was an expression of affection for a friend.
The FA said in a statement on Thursday that "the comment that appeared on the account of the Manchester United striker was insulting, offensive, indecent and damaging to the reputation of the game and violates the FA regulations."
United said their player had decided not to challenge the accusation out of respect for the federation and to combat racism in football, and that he had apologized accordingly.
"I do not want to go into this uncomfortable situation for a long time ... I would like to inform you that I have accepted the punishment, although I do not agree with the point of view. I apologize for any offense that may have been caused by the word that was an expression of affection towards a friend," Kavani said on Instagram.
"I appreciate the many messages of support and affection that I received. I feel relieved now," Cavani added.
Due to the penalty, Cavani will miss Manchester United's league match against Aston Villa later on Friday, and the team's match in the League Cup semi-final against Manchester City and the FA Cup match against Watford.