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Carlo Ancelotti has slammed critics of Vinicius Junior and says the Real Madrid star is the most “persecuted” footballer in history.
The Brazilian was criticised for pushing RB Leipzig’s Will Orban to the floor in their midweek Champions League draw, something he was booked for. The forward was repeatedly whistled at by Valencia’s supporters in Madrid’s 2-2 draw last weekend – nine months on from being racially abused by fans at the Mestalla last season. Now, Los Blancos manager Ancelotti has emphatically backed the 23-year-old in an impassioned rant.
He told reporters on Friday: “I’ve looked back a bit, at history, at statistics, and I’ve never seen a player who’s been persecuted like Vinícius. He’s kicked, he’s whistled, he’s insulted. And what does he do? He scores goals and provides assists. And then I’m supposed to talk to him about his attitude? No! Everyone should change their attitude regarding Vinícius. In my personal history, a player with great talent has never suffered the things that Vinicius has. In Vallecas [against Rayo Vallecano] he got karate chopped in the head, and there wasn’t even a yellow card. Now everyone is asking for a red card for the push against Leipzig.”
Aside from the criticism and abuse he receives, Vinicius has continued to perform on the pitch for the Spanish giants. In 26 games, he has scored 15 goals and bagged seven assists and will continue to be crucial in their push for silverware this season.
The Brazilian international is likely to be in action for La Liga leaders Madrid when they take on Celta Vigo on Sunday evening, looking to extend their gap at the top of the table to second-placed Barcelona to eight points.
