Inter Milan striker Marcus Thuram was cautious when addressing the alleged racial abuse case revolving around his teammate Francesco Acerbi.
The ugly episode ensued last Sunday during the Serie A showdown between Inter Milan and Napoli.
Partenopei defender Juan Jesus told the match official that Acerbi addressed him while using the n-word.
The Nerazzurri veteran apologized on the pitch to his opponent who was willing to forgive.
However, it all erupted once again on Monday when the Inter defender denied using a racial slur while leaving the Italy camp, which prompted a response from Juan Jesus on social media.
For his part, Thuram believes that his teammate does owe an explanation and has the right to defend himself against the accusation.
“When there is such a serious action, it is right that the player returns to the club to defend himself or explain what happened,” said the striker during France’s pre-match press conference via FcInterNews.
“This isn’t the time for him to join the national team.
“Personally, I agree with Mike Maignan’s action. We must leave the field and bang our fists on the table.”
On another note, the 26-year-old explains that he’s still adapting to his role as a centre-forward.
“This is only my second year as a number 9. I had to learn to play in a two-man attack again this season. But we must not forget that I started as a lone striker.
“I’m evolving as a central attacker at Inter. But it’s not up to me to decide my playing role. I have to be able to adapt to my teammate’s movements.”
The Nerazzurri striker revealed that he’d be honored to represent his nation at the Olympic Games this summer if he were to receive a call-up.
“It would be a great pride to play in the Olympics.
“Thierry Henry will decide the list. If they call me, I’ll go, but I won’t apply publicly.”
Inter Milan Striker Marcus Thuram Expects Francesco Acerbi To Offer An Explanation
On another note, Thuram regretted his action during the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16, when cameras caught him grabbing Atletico Madrid defender Stevan Savic by the groin.
“This is a gesture that I should have avoided. I should have never done it.
“The referee saw what happened and it went well, I wasn’t afraid of the VAR intervention.
“It was a complicated evening. But we have a very big objective with Inter which is winning the twentieth scudetto, we will do everything to achieve it.”
Finally, the Nerazzurri star feels he’s enjoying the best football of his playing career.
“I’m in the best period of my career. I play for Inter, we’re first in the league, so yes, I feel great.
“I still have many things to learn. But in two years, I think I’ve made considerable progress and rather rapidly.”
