Atletico Madrid fans sing 'Vinicius, you're a monkey' ahead of Real Madrid derby
Video footage has emerged showing Atletico Madrid fans singing a sickening racist chant directed at Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr ahead of the Madrid derby at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday night. The Brazilian will be firmly in the spotlight for the crucial meeting due to a story that made headlines in Spain and around the world ahead of the game.
The controversy began when Atletico Madrid captain Koke warned Vinicius to expect fireworks if he chose to dance after scoring in the game - the mark celebration of wingman factory.
The Spaniard said: "At the end of the day, if he scores a goal and decides to dance, it's his decision. To each his taste and each celebrates as he likes."
Before adding later: "There would be problems for sure [if Vinicius dances], it's normal."
Next, Pedro Bravo, the president of the Spanish agents' association, accused Vinicius of "playing the monkey" - remarks that sparked outrage, especially in Brazil.
READ MORE: Man Utd collectively decide on 'next three signings' for Erik ten Hag rebuild
The racial slur prompted several of Vinicius Jr's international teammates to rally around the 22-year-old, telling him to dance free if he does indeed find the net.
Now shocking pre-match footage has emerged which appears to show Atletico fans collectively chanting racist chants outside the stadium.
"You are a monkey, Vinicius you are a monkey", was sung several times in front of the Wanda Metropolitano.
Atletico Madrid have since responded with a short message on their Twitter account, posting: "Countdown to the derby. Support Atleti with passion and respect for the rival!"
Real Madrid released their own statement on Saturday, threatening legal action against anyone who abuses their players for racist purposes.
It read: "Real Madrid C.F. condemns all types of racist and xenophobic language and behavior in football, sport and life in general, such as the regrettable and unfortunate comments made against our player Vinicius Junior in recent hours .
"Real Madrid would like to express their affection and support for Vinicius Junior, a player who sees football as an attitude towards life through joy, respect and sportsmanship. Football is the most which is and must be a model of values and coexistence.
"The club has ordered its legal services to take legal action against anyone who makes racist comments towards our players."
Neymar and Gabriel Jesus, who paid tribute to his compatriot with a celebratory dance after scoring in Arsenal's 3-0 win at Brentford, were among those to support the striker on Twitter .
His manager Carlo Ancelotti also expressed his support for his player, saying it was impossible to ignore the noise outside.
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti doesn't dispute Vinicius' dance, saying he will protect all players at the club.
"I see a great player demonstrating his talent - that's all," Ancelotti said.
"I'm not deaf and I'm not stupid, I hear what is being said but it's not a subject for us or for Vinicius. He has an extraordinary quality and it is normal for opponents to try to stop him in his tracks and the rules of the game are there to protect all players, not just Vinicius."
Video footage has emerged showing Atletico Madrid fans singing a sickening racist chant directed at Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr ahead of the Madrid derby at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday night. The Brazilian will be firmly in the spotlight for the crucial meeting due to a story that made headlines in Spain and around the world ahead of the game.
The controversy began when Atletico Madrid captain Koke warned Vinicius to expect fireworks if he chose to dance after scoring in the game - the mark celebration of wingman factory.
The Spaniard said: "At the end of the day, if he scores a goal and decides to dance, it's his decision. To each his taste and each celebrates as he likes."
Before adding later: "There would be problems for sure [if Vinicius dances], it's normal."
Next, Pedro Bravo, the president of the Spanish agents' association, accused Vinicius of "playing the monkey" - remarks that sparked outrage, especially in Brazil.
READ MORE: Man Utd collectively decide on 'next three signings' for Erik ten Hag rebuild
The racial slur prompted several of Vinicius Jr's international teammates to rally around the 22-year-old, telling him to dance free if he does indeed find the net.
Now shocking pre-match footage has emerged which appears to show Atletico fans collectively chanting racist chants outside the stadium.
"You are a monkey, Vinicius you are a monkey", was sung several times in front of the Wanda Metropolitano.
Atletico Madrid have since responded with a short message on their Twitter account, posting: "Countdown to the derby. Support Atleti with passion and respect for the rival!"
Real Madrid released their own statement on Saturday, threatening legal action against anyone who abuses their players for racist purposes.
It read: "Real Madrid C.F. condemns all types of racist and xenophobic language and behavior in football, sport and life in general, such as the regrettable and unfortunate comments made against our player Vinicius Junior in recent hours .
"Real Madrid would like to express their affection and support for Vinicius Junior, a player who sees football as an attitude towards life through joy, respect and sportsmanship. Football is the most which is and must be a model of values and coexistence.
"The club has ordered its legal services to take legal action against anyone who makes racist comments towards our players."
Neymar and Gabriel Jesus, who paid tribute to his compatriot with a celebratory dance after scoring in Arsenal's 3-0 win at Brentford, were among those to support the striker on Twitter .
His manager Carlo Ancelotti also expressed his support for his player, saying it was impossible to ignore the noise outside.
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti doesn't dispute Vinicius' dance, saying he will protect all players at the club.
"I see a great player demonstrating his talent - that's all," Ancelotti said.
"I'm not deaf and I'm not stupid, I hear what is being said but it's not a subject for us or for Vinicius. He has an extraordinary quality and it is normal for opponents to try to stop him in his tracks and the rules of the game are there to protect all players, not just Vinicius."
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