Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez met with Vinícius Júnior earlier on Monday to discuss the racial abuse he suffered at Mestalla on Sunday and show his support.
“The Real Madrid president had a meeting with Vinícius Júnior expressing his support and affection, informing him of all the steps that are being taken in his defence and confirming that the club will go to any length in the face of such a disgusting hateful incident,” the club wrote.
Players show support for Vinícius
Ronaldinho: “Being black is a source of pride”
Former Barcelona player Ronaldinho has shown his support for Vinícius via Instagram:
“No type of discrimination should ever be permitted. I hope that Vinícius’ case results in such voices who do so much damage to the sport being banned from stadiums. Being black is a source of pride!”
Kaká: “We’re with you”
The 2009 Ballon d’Or winner said: “We’re with you, Vini Jr. No room for racism”.
Casemiro: Zero tolerance
Vinícius’ Brazil team-mate Casemiro has also come out in support of his compatriot.
“I feel disappointed and ashamed to see how my team-mate Vinícius Junior is repeatedly the target of racist abuse.
“We cannot continue to tolerate this problem that transcends sport, affects the whole of society and goes unpunished. Public condemnation is not enough, punishment is necessary.
“La Liga must urgently take drastic measures, because these repeated incidents of racism tarnish the image not only of Spanish football, but also of all world football. And the feeling must be unanimous: zero tolerance!!!!”
Kluivert responds
After the ugly scenes at Mestalla on Sunday, several Valencia players, including Justin Kluivert, offered their apologies to the Brazilian forward.
“We apologise to Vinícius Júnior on behalf of Valencia. We can’t accept racist insults. I don’t like to see what happened with Vinícius. That’s not football.”
Kieran Quaile | GSFN
