By Fernando Kallas
MADRID – Brazilian striker Vinicius Junior cried when he said he struggles to stay motivated and enjoy playing football because of the recurring racist insults he is subjected to in Spain.
During an emotional press conference ahead of the Brazilian team’s friendly against Spain on Tuesday, the Real Madrid winger said he was frustrated that fans continue to get away with racist insults directed at him.
Last season, 10 incidents of racism against the 23-year-old were reported to the Spanish league prosecutor’s office.
“I just want to play football, but it’s difficult to move forward… I have less and less desire to play (due to racist insults),” said Vinicius, in a press conference this Monday, sometimes struggling to speak, among tears. .
“I haven’t thought much about leaving here (Spain). If I leave, I will give the racists what they want.”
“I will continue to fight and play for the best in the world, winning titles and scoring many goals, so they can see my face every time. Since I am a brave player, who plays for Real Madrid and we win many titles, it is complicated .”
Brazil will face Spain at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday, in a friendly match as part of the campaign against racism.
In May last year, Real Madrid’s Spanish league match at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium was interrupted for 10 minutes after Vinicius was subjected to racist abuse from sections of the stands.
Vinicius took aim at fans who insulted him before becoming involved in an argument with Valencia players which saw him sent off.
The incident generated a groundswell of support for the Brazilian and spurred a series of local and international campaigns, but Vinicius expressed his frustration after being subjected to further abuse that season. La Liga ended up reporting several other cases in recent months.
“I think it’s something very sad, everything I’ve been through here every game, every day, with every complaint I make… it’s increasing,” Vinicius added.
“The lack of punishment is very frustrating. If we start punishing these people, they will not change their way of thinking, but they will be afraid to speak, whether in the stadium, where there are cameras… and in this way we will reduce this, put fear in those people.”
“I want to keep fighting, but it’s difficult. It doesn’t matter if I win or lose matches, I’m already a winner for being here.”
Source: Terra
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