FIGC announce Francesco Acerbi won’t take part in Italy’s friendly encounters in the USA following ‘alleged’ racist remarks aimed at Napoli defender Juan Jesus and will be replaced by Gianluca Mancini.
FIGC have just released a statement to confirm that Acerbi won’t be part of the Italy squad for the next two games against Venezuela and Ecuador in the USA.
“Footballer Francesco Acerbi explained his version about the alleged racist expression signalled by footballer Juan Jesus during Inter-Napoli to coach Luciano Spalletti and his teammates, as provided by club Italia’s internal policy.
“From what the Nerazzurri defender, said, waiting for an independent report from the sporting justice, it emerged that he didn’t have any defamatory, disparaging or racist intent. However, we still opted to exclude Acerbi from the next two games in the USA. Consequently, the player will return to his club today and Roma defender Gianluca Mancini will be called up.”
FIGC said Mancini was already part of a provisional squad of reserves who would replace unavailable players.
What happened between Acerbi and Juan Jesus
Napoli defender Juan Jesus reported Acerbi’s alleged racist remarks to referee Federico La Penna on Sunday night, while a Serie A game between Inter and Napoli at San Siro was still on. The Brazilian centre-back, a former Inter defender, said during a post-match interview that Acerbi had apologised.
How long Acerbi could be banned for
It is probably too early to know how long Acerbi will be banned for but, if his racist remarks are officially confirmed, he could face a suspension of at least ten 10 matches. Acerbi, 36, was expected to be a regular Italy starter in the USA and even in the 2024 Euros.
He has collected 34 international appearances with Italy, including three under the new coach, Luciano Spalletti.