Inter and Atletico Madrid have united for the anti-racism initiative We Love Football ahead of their Champions League tie with a message from Marcus Thuram. ‘Football is a university of life.’
The first leg of the Round of 16 tie is on Tuesday at San Siro.
Sadly, the last few weeks have seen more racist abuse aimed at players not just by opponents, but even from their own fans who were critical of errors.
Thuram sat down with the Atletico Madrid social media team to send a message to everyone that football is a sport where all feel welcome.
“Football is a game for me, a game I used to love when I was a child, with the dream of becoming a footballer,” said Thuram, whose father Lilian played for Parma and Juventus.
“Scoring goals, bringing joy to the people who come to watch us at the stadium, they are who help us, game after game.
“Football is a university of life, where you grow with your teammates, through respect. You have to learn what teamwork means.
“I think that being a good teammate helps you to be a good person in general.”
Social media has brought players closer than ever to the supporters and shown a different side to them, but also put more responsibility on their shoulders.
“Footballers are the idols of many people in today’s world. They are an example for many children and the grown-ups, too.
“If there’s a message that needs to be sent out, footballers can do it thanks to the impact they have on society.
“Football can help bring people together, to have a dream, to change your life.”