Answered by Shaykh Ilyas Patel
Is it permissible to support a football team that has as it’s logo a devil? Bearing in mind the logo is a cartoonish charcater and in no way means we worship or support the devil rather the team – is this allowed?
In the name of Allah Most Compassionate Merciful
I hope you are fine and in the best of health and iman.
There are two issues: one is supporting a football team and the other is wearing clothing which has a sketched and drawn character with figure.
Supporting a football team is not haram in itself, but it leads to negligence of many of out obligatory acts of the day eventually, though even if one supports it staying in limits (e.g. listens to its commentary…). It is difficult to find people who would stay within the limits. In this day and age, it has become one of most obsessive pass times and entertainments, which has lead to many bad habits and indecent outcomes. Also, if one watches, listens and keeps up with one’s supporting team one would need a lot of time, and time is the most important aspect of one’s life. It should be refreshed and nurtured in a halal way. There are many other halal alternatives e.g. playing the sport with the intention of physical and mental exercise, instead of supporting it fully by watching it.
The ‘devil logo’ on a Manchester United jersey, cap, jacket, etc, though it is small and has eyes and mouth marks too, would be offensive, though not haram to wear. One should wear appropriate clothes when performing prayers or worshipping Allah in any other way.
And Allah alone knows best