Football: Juan Jesus “bitter” and “discouraged” after the non-sanction of Acerbi, accused of racism

Napoli defender Juan Jesus expressed his bitterness and discouragement on Wednesday the day after the Italian Football Federation's decision not to sanction Inter Milan's Italian international Francesco Acerbi, whom he accused of racist insult. “It is a decision that, while respecting it, I find it difficult to understand and which leaves me very bitter,” wrote Juan Jesus in a long message published by his club.

“I am really discouraged by the outcome of a serious matter, the only fault of which was that I handled it as a gentleman, avoiding interrupting an important match with all the inconvenience that that would have caused for the spectators. and hoping that my attitude would have been respected and taken, perhaps, as an example,” continues the Brazilian.

“I did not expect such a decision, which I fear – but I hope I am wrong – will create an unfortunate precedent to justify certain behaviors. I sincerely hope that this sad story can help the world of football to reflect on such a serious and urgent issue to be resolved,” he concluded. On March 17, during the clash of the 29th day between Inter Milan, leader of Serie A, and Naples, defending champion, Juan Jesus told the match referee that Acerbi had made a racist remark to him then that the two players were fighting over a corner.

On Tuesday, the Italian Federation announced that the 2021 European champion, who was liable to a suspension of at least ten matches, was not sanctioned due to lack of conclusive evidence.

“The discriminatory content, without calling into question the good faith (of Juan Jesus), seems to have been perceived only by the offended player, without the support of any external proof, whether audio, video or even testimony” , explains in particular the judgment of the FIGC. In the process, Naples said it was “stunned” by this decision and announced that it would no longer participate in “the purely cosmetic initiatives” against racism and discrimination coordinated by the Italian Federation.

Napoli confirmed on Wednesday that it would not participate in the “Keep racism out” operation on the menu for the 30th day of the Italian Championship, as already for the 29th. According to the local press, Naples players could wear a jersey in support of their teammate before the kick-off of their next match on Saturday.