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It’s 2019 people. Milan shouldn’t have to be making statements like these.
Comunicato ufficiale: #ACMilan si schiera contro il razzismo ➡️ https://t.co/M66dc8o2fE
— AC Milan (@acmilan) April 25, 2019
Official statement: AC Milan stands against racism ➡️ https://t.co/B9o1bEcdqN pic.twitter.com/vtPMQKKwYJ
The club released an official statement regarding the racist abuse aimed at Franck Kessie and Tiémoué Bakayoko, saying:
AC Milan wants to reiterate its condemnation of all forms of racism and discrimination following the incidents of last night’s Coppa Italia semi-final second leg game between AC Milan and SS Lazio. Recurring chants and monkey noises directed to players Franck Kessie and Tiémoué Bakayoko could be heard coming from the away stand before, during and after the match.
Throughout their 120 years of history, the Rossoneri have always honoured the values of Sport, respect and inclusion, which underpin everything we do.
The Club wants to thank all players from both teams for their professionalism and their fairness, as well as its fans for their passionate support and their responsible behaviour despite a climate exacerbated by unacceptable episodes.AC Milan has felt an obligation to report yesterday’s serious incidents to the highest sports governing bodies, with the hope that, with everyone’s commitment, measures are implemented to eliminate racism from all stadia.
Again, it’s 2019. This is shameful behavior from the Lazio fans and it’s even more shameful that no one with power in Italian football feels especially compelled to do anything about it.
On to the links.
AC Milan and Italian Football Links
Highlights from Milan’s Coppa Italia semifinal loss. [AC Milan Offside]
Recap & Player Ratings from Milan’s 1-0 loss to Lazio. [AC Milan Offside]
Highlights from Atalanta’s 2-1 victory over Fiorentina. [Viola Nation]
Wanda Nara continues to insist that Mauro Icardi is staying at Inter Milan. Sure, why not. [Serpents of Madonnina]
World Football Links
Manchester United’s Paul Pogba is on the PFA team of the year for the Premier League. You might have heard about it. [BBC.com]
Marco Silva dismissed claims of inconsistency at Everton. [Royal Blue Mersey]
Villarreal have now won three straight in La Liga after defeating high-flying Real Sociedad 1-0 and are closing in on safety after spending much of the season in or around the relegation spots. [Villarreal USA]
Round up of last week in Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil. [FMF State of Mind]