Footballers across the world have condemned claims by Juventus’ defender Leonardo Bonucci that his teammate Moise Kean is to be blamed for the racist abuse aimed at him during the team’s 2-0 win in Cagliari on Tuesday.
The Italian said the blame was “50-50”.
Juve’s 19-year-old forward Kean was subjected to racist abuse by Cagliari fans during the Serie A game at the Sardegna Arena in which Kean scored the second goal.
After scoring, Kean, who was born in Italy to Ivorian parents and has three Italy caps, turned to the home fans and spread his arms. In response, Cagliari’s supporters made the noise which is described by Italian media as “buu” and is regarded as a racist insult in Italian football. Monkey noises could also be clearly heard among the crowd.
After the match Bonucci criticised Kean for his reaction and said:
“Kean knows that when he scores a goal, he has to focus on celebrating with his teammates. He knows he could’ve done something differently too.
“There were racist jeers after the goal, Blaise [Matuidi] heard it and was angered. I think the blame is 50-50, because Moise shouldn’t have done that and the Curva should not have reacted that way. We are professionals, we have to set the example and not provoke anyone.”
His comment has sparked reactions on social media from footballers and football fans across the world.
Kean posted a picture of his goal celebration on Instagram on Wednesday with the caption:
“The best way to respond to racism.”
England player Raheem Sterling who has consistently been a victim of racism, in his reaction wrote on Instagram:
“All you can do now is laugh.”
Lyon forward Memphis Depay in a tweet to Bonucci said:
“I am disappointed in your reaction … We will not be quiet! #SayNoToRacism.”
Mario Balotelli was among those to responded to Kean’s IG post, replying:
“Bravo. Bonucci is lucky that I wasn’t there. Instead of defending you he does this? I am shocked.”
Ivorian international Yaya Toure also said Bonucci’s comment is “unbelievable” and was “very hurt” when he heard about it.
