Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi insists he didn’t racially abuse Napoli defender Juan Jesus during yesterday’s clash.
The San Siro clash ended with a 1-1 draw which hardly changed the narrative on top of the Serie A table, with the Nerazzurri still maintaining a 14-point lead over AC Milan.
However, an ugly row marred the whole affair and stole all the headlines on Monday.
Napoli defender Juan Jesus went over to referee Federico La Penna to say that Acerbi had racially abused him. This took place just before the hour mark.
Specifically, Jesus – who is a person of color – told La Penna that the Inter defender had used a racist slur which translates to the “n-word” in English while speaking to him, according to reports lip-reading the conversation.
Acerbi had earned a call-up to the Italian national team along with five other Inter stars. However, the Azzurri decided to send him home.
The former Lazio man has defended himself by denying racist allegations while leaving the camp.
Inter Milan Defender Francesco Acerbi Denies Racially Abusing Juan Jesus
He insists that he didn’t make any racist slur while revealing his disappointment at leaving the national team.
“I didn’t say anything racist,” said the Nerazzurri centre-back as quoted by Sky Sport Italia while leaving Coverciano (via FcInter1908).
“I’m sad to leave the national team. I’ve never said any racist words.
“I’m very calm, I’ve been playing for 20 years and I know what I’m saying,” proclaimed Acerbi.
At this point, we can only await the results of the investigation which will either convict or clear the player of the ugly allegation.
If proven, this could earn the veteran defender a lengthy ban.
