The Uruguayan thanked a follower on his Instagram story last month using the phrase gracias negrito, which translates to thank you, little Black one.

The phrase is seen as an affectionate term of endearment in South America but considered offensive in other parts of the world, because its meaning can be misconstrued.

Cavani later issued an apology for the language used saying the last thing I wanted to do was cause offence to anyone.

I am completely opposed to racism and deleted the message as soon as it was explained that it can be interpreted differently.

In a statement on Thursday the FA said the post was insulting, abusive, improper and brought the game into disrepute and constituted an aggravated breach.

Cavani of Uruguay heads the ball during the warmup before a South American World Cup qualifier against Brazil on November 17, 2020 in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Before moving to United, Cavani played for Paris Saint-Germain between 2013 and 2020.

The club trusts that the independent regulatory commission will make it clear in its written reasons that Edinson Cavani is not a racist, nor was there any racist intent in relation to his post.

The ban comes into immediate effect meaning he will miss Uniteds English Premier League game against Aston Villa on Friday, the English League Cup semifinal against Manchester City on January 6 and the FA Cup third round tie against Watford on January 9.

Cavani has scored four goals since joining United in October.

Before moving to England, the 33-year-old Cavani won six league titles with Paris Saint-Germain and, with 200 goals, is the French clubs all-time leading scorer.

Cacani