Atalanta and Senegal have published statements following the racist abuse of Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly during yesterday’s match in Bergamo.
The Senegal international was once again targeted by opposing fans, triggering reactions from La Dea and the Senegal FA.
“Atalanta BC announces that any behaviour that does not align with the principles of respect and acceptance, which always have been pursued by the Club, will be strongly opposed,” the Nerazzurri said in a statement.
“We emphasize that we do not wish to grant any visibility to those who depart from our culture. Therefore, we will act through the relevant bodies so that the images of the club and the city of Bergamo are protected without any tumults.”
The Senegal FA also accused Atalanta fans who have already racially abused other players in the past and also during the current campaign.
“As to their sad habits, some Atalanta fans reissued their human nonsense by uttering vile and racist insults to our captain and leader, Kalidou Koulibaly,” they wrote.
“These brainless idiots have no place inside stadiums. Kalidou, the Senegalese people support you wholeheartedly and stand as one man to take pride in your courage, bravery, exemplarity, and belonging to our race and our country.
“Courage, captain, they will never reach you. You said it during the reception at the Palace of the Republic after our victory at the AFCON: ‘We can be killed but not dishonoured,’ Senegal and Africa are proud of you.
“You are the intractable defender of our colour, identity, and culture. That’s why you’re the most beautiful and the strongest.”
Has there been a change in ownership of the Curva Nord Bergamo? This is a long way from their long standing political leaning – the 2nd most left-wing club after Livorno.
Great for the Senegal FA to speak up but they must also do so when their own supporters act the same way e.g against Egypt recently. Atalanta issued an apology against the vile behavior towards Koulibaly, the Senegal FA however denied any wrong doing when it was done to Mo Salah and his Egyptian teammates when all was caught on camera.