Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci woke up early Wednesday only to find criticism regarding his remarks after teammate Moise Keane suffered racial abuse during their match against Cagliari.
Leonardo Bonucci now says his comments were ‘clearly misunderstood’ after the Juventus defender was criticised for his reaction to the racist abuse Moise Kean suffered against Cagliari fans.
“You celebrate goals with your team-mates. He could have done it differently,” Bonucci said.
“I think the blame is 50-50. Moise should not have done that and the Curva [fans] should not have reacted in that way.”
Manchester City and England star Raheem Sterling was among those to condemn Bonucci’s comments but he has come out in defence in a new post on Instagram.
“After 24 hours I want to clarify my feelings,” the Italy international wrote.
“Yesterday I was interviewed right at the end of the game, and my words have been clearly misunderstood, probably because I was too hasty in the way I expressed my thoughts.
“Hours and years wouldn’t be enough to talk about this topic. I firmly condemn all forms of racism and discrimination.
“The abuses are not acceptable at all and this must not be misunderstood.”
Juventus boss Max Allegri also said Kean should shoulder some of the blame for celebrating in front of Cagliari’s fans after scoring the second goal in a 2-0 win.
“He shouldn’t have celebrated in that manner,” Allegri said.
“He is a young man and he has to learn, but certain things from the crowd also shouldn’t be heard.”