Real Madrid promise legal action over racist remarks after Vinicius Jr told to stop ‘playing the monkey’ by agents chief | The Sun

REAL MADRID chiefs have vowed to take legal action if any of their players are subject to racist remarks.

This comes after Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr was told to "respect rivals and stop playing the monkey" by Spanish agent Pedro Bravo after he celebrated scoring against Mallorca.


Bravo's comments led to numerous accusations of racism which are currently being dealt with by Real Madrid.

An official club statement read: "Real Madrid C.F. condemns all types of racist and xenophobic language and behaviour in football, sport and life in general, such as the regrettable and unfortunate comments made against our player Vinicius Junior in the last few hours.

"Real Madrid would like to express its affection and support for Vinicius Junior, a player who regards football as an attitude towards life through joy, respect and sportsmanship.

"Football is the most global sport there is and should be a model of values and coexistence.

Read More on Real Madrid

LaLiga latest from huge Madrid derby plus how to watch for FREE

How to get free bets on football – the best bookies to claim rewards and bonuses

"The club has directed its legal services to take legal action against anyone who makes racist remarks towards our players."

Vinicius has also spoken out on the issue and has insisted that he will continue to dance and celebrate as it makes him happy.

In a heartfelt video, he said: "They say that happiness bothers.

"The happiness of a victorious black Brazilian in Europe bothers much more.

Most read in Football

STAR HUNTED

Ex-Arsenal star hunted by cops after failing to appear in court for stalking ex

CATHEDRAL CITY

Milan and Inter ‘agree to DEMOLISH San Siro’ with new stadium ready by 2027

FOX IN THE BOX

I've offered entire Leicester squad my X-rated pics if they beat Spurs

DERBY FEARS

North London derby chaos as ALL 12 rail companies plot another strike on Oct 1

HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL

"But my desire to win, my smile and the sparkle in my eyes are much bigger than that.

"You can't even imagine it. I was a victim of a xenophobic and racist comment. But none of that started yesterday."

The Brazilian superstar then pointed out that he was not the first player to dance in celebration after scoring, listing a number of other players who have done the same but have not been called out for it.

He added: "Weeks ago they began to criminalise my dances. Dances that are not mine.

"They belong to Ronaldinho, Neymar, [Lucas] Paqueta, [Antoine] Griezmann, Joao Felix, Matheus Cunha… they belong to Brazilian funk and samba artists, reggaeton singers, and black Americans.

"Those are dances to celebrate the cultural diversity of the world. Accept it, respect it. I'm not going to stop."

Bravo has since apologised, claiming that the comment was not intended to be viewed as racist.

The Spaniard tweeted: "I want to clarify that the expression “playing the monkey” that I have misused to qualify Vinicius' goal celebration dance was done metaphorically (“doing stupid things”).

Read More on The Sun

Mike Tindall was told off for breaking silence during the Queen’s procession

Tearful Becks says ‘we’ll never see her like again’ after seeing Queen’s coffin

"Since my intention was not to offend anyone, I sincerely apologise. I am sorry!"

Real Madrid are set to take on rivals Atletico Madrid on Sunday before the international break kicks off next week.

Source: Read Full Article