Manchester United’s new Samba star Antony has jumped to the defense of his international teammate Vinicius Junior, after the player was subjected to racist comments.
Antony, who recently joined United from Ajax after two highly successful seasons with the Dutch champions, passionately defended his Brazilian team-mates, tweeting his support.
And as the pair of 22-year-old wingers prepare for a double cap on international duty, United’s new number 21 has also questioned why his countrymen are subjected to this level of unfair treatment.
Stating on Twitter that Brazilians get bookings from referees for their dance celebrations, but Europeans do too, the €95m man is one of several players to comment on the unfair treatment some players have received.
???? Antony: “What I don’t understand is always having those eyes for the Brazilian player. He is always signing Neymar or Vinícius Junior to dance. That’s what I don’t understand, it’s not just Brazilian players who do it, but also Europeans.” ???????????? https://t.co/HVmSFHF7fO
— UtdPlug (@UtdPlug) September 21, 2022
Antony is currently on international duty with Brazil as they prepare for their last friendly matches before the World Cup kicks off in Qatar next November.
With games against African nations Ghana and Tunisia, the United striker is in contention for a big presence.
And Antony has backed his compatriot as he questions statements about the treatment Vinicius has recently been subjected to while playing for his club Barcelona.
He first called out a TV commentator who used a racist comment when celebrating a goal.
But sadly, the abuses did not end there, as Real Madrid found themselves on the receiving end of racist songs sung by Atletico fans during last Sunday’s Madrid derby.
And after unpleasant scenes in which glasses and other objects were thrown at the Los Blancos player, LaLiga issued a statement condemning the abuse.
While Vinicius has received endless support from his teammates, both at club and country, the young star and his fellow South Americans will no doubt be surprised by the xenophobic comments directed at him and his fellow Brazilians.
With dancing and celebrating their goals and abilities as a way of life, the Samba boys are sure to continue doing it in a way that only they know how.
