PREMIER League managers have united in the fight against racism. Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has made a strong statement on the issue, saying anyone found guilty of racist behaviour “shouldn’t be in the game,” writes Sam French.
The comments come as UEFA opens an investigation into allegations that Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr was racially abused by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during their Champions League clash. Prestianni denies the allegations but could face a suspension of at least 10 European matches if found guilty.
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Rosenior stressed that the problem extends beyond football. “If any player, any coach or any manager is found guilty of racism, they shouldn’t be in the game. It’s as simple as that,” he said.
“It’s upsetting. Any form of racism in society, not just football, is unacceptable. When you see a player upset, like Vinicius Jr was, normally there’s a reason for it.”
“I have been racially abused myself. What people need to understand is when you are judged for something you should be proud of, it is the worst feeling you can ever possibly imagine,” Rosenior added.
Rosenior said addressing racism requires wider societal change. “This is a very complex situation when you speak about race or gender. There are a lot of things that need to change in society. It sickens me. There needs to be more accountability for these things to be stamped out,” he explained.
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“People are judged based on their sexual orientation, where they come from, their religion, or skin colour. Everyone should be judged equally based on the content of their character.”
Meanwhile, West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who played and managed for Benfica rivals Porto, echoed Rosenior’s words and, called for racism to be “eradicated all over the world.”
“I condemn it. There is no space in football or society, and for me, it is final. Totally condemn it,” he stated.
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