Former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez has come under intense scrutiny after sharing a controversial video on Instagram, sparking widespread criticism for remarks deemed sexist by many.
In the video, the 37-year-old, known as Chicharito, addressed his 6.1 million followers with a message that has drawn condemnation across social media platforms. He claimed that women are "failing" by moving away from traditional roles and accused them of “eradicating masculinity.”
“Women, you are failing. You are eradicating masculinity by making society hypersensitive,” Hernandez declared. “Embrace your feminine energy: nurturing, caring, receiving, multiplying, cleaning, maintaining the home, which is the most precious place for us men.”
The Guadalajara forward, who has previously opened up about personal struggles following his 2021 split from model Sarah Kohan, continued: “Do not be afraid to be women, to allow yourselves to be led by a man who only wants to see you happy, because we do not know heaven without you. Holding yourselves responsible for your energy is also a way of loving you.”
Hernandez, who had a successful football career with clubs including Manchester United, West Ham, and LA Galaxy, added further commentary on men's role in relationships: “Men, we are failing in the lack of commitment, putting our partners last, not keeping our word, and not prioritising habits to become admirable.”
He also acknowledged the cultural tension surrounding discussions of gender roles: “I understand that we are afraid to speak and truly express what we feel because they are trying to eradicate masculinity, since in certain cases of the past, feminine energy was suppressed, but many of us are here wanting to love you, take care of you, respect you, and provide for you. But you women must learn to honour masculinity.”
A separate video posted by Hernandez added to the backlash, in which he said: “So, you want a man who provides, but for you, cleaning is patriarchal oppression? Interesting.”
Despite a decorated international and club career, including becoming Mexico’s all-time top scorer with 52 goals in 109 appearances and winning two Premier League titles, Hernandez’s recent remarks have shifted the spotlight away from his footballing achievements and onto a growing public controversy.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @ch14_