Juan Jesus opened up about the ongoing battle against discrimination following the incident with Inter’s Francesco Acerbi, highlighting how there’s ‘still racism in stadiums’.
The 32-year-old Brazilian centre back was spotted talking to referee Federico La Penna in the closing stages of the clash with the Nerazzurri on March 17, pointing to the Kick Racism out badge on his shirt and alleging that Acerbi had ‘called him a n****r’.
The FIGC Prosecutor’s Office have now opened an investigation and both players will be questioned in the coming days, with Acerbi having to withdraw from the Italy training camp in Coverciano. The Inter veteran is at risk of being handed a 10-match ban should he be found guilty of racism against Juan Jesus.
Speaking to Napoli youngster Mohamed Stick Mane, Juan Jesus opened up about the ongoing battle against racism.
“Racism is unfortunately a situation that we have been experiencing for a long time. There are people who say that we are improving, but unfortunately there are some laws that aren’t respected.
“It’s sad because we are all the same, white, black and everything else. As I believe, we are made by God and we all have the same task, to live on this earth, there are no differences.”
He highlighted how there are still issues with racism in Italian football stadiums.
“Unfortunately, there’s still racism in the stadiums. We have to grow as human beings, I think there are many people who aren’t aware that this is something that can hurt. We’re human beings, we have hearts, souls, brains and I hope stronger laws are made to stop this.”
Juan Jesus then asked the teenage Seick Mane if he’d suffered any racism on the pitch.
“Yes, last year. In the league a defender called me n****r. I didn’t respond, I continued playing. When he told me I was black I said, ‘yes I’m black’.”
The Napoli defender did not mince his words when discussing those who commit acts of racism.
“You still have to be strong, those who commit acts of racism have small brains. You have to think within yourself, I know I’m perfect, as god made me, and I’m here for my dream of playing football.
“You must be aware of yourself, and you must always say so if you have suffered an act of racism. People can’t say what they want.
“I tell young people to be strong in mind, unfortunately acts of racism always happen. You have to be strong, and you don’t have to listen to anyone.”
Voices breaking silence. Napoli e Juan insieme contro ogni forma di razzismo 👊
💙 #ForzaNapoliSempre #KeepRacismOut pic.twitter.com/FUPi2BQ0BB
— Official SSC Napoli (@sscnapoli) March 20, 2024