Real Madrid defender Marcelo has said he will never let racist chants get the better of him and affect his performance or hurt his family.
Reports this week suggested some sections of the Atletico de Madrid supporters had racially abused Marcelo as he came onto the pitch to warm down after his side had won 3-0 in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. There were also claims that the Brazil left-back’s son, who was also on the pitch, was subject to racist chants.
Taking to social media to respond to the racist abuse, Marcelo said it would never affect him or his family.
In a statement, he said: “I want to thank you all for the support you have given me today. And even though this is not the first time it happens I can promise you that we are stronger than any kind of racism. This will never affect me of my family.”
Neither Real Madrid or Atletico de Madrid have commented of the subject since the reports broke. La Liga clubs can be fined up to 60,000 euros and be forced to play games behind closed doors should their fans be found guilty of racist chanting.
