Milan's Maignan alleges racial abuse
Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan has alleged he was subject to racial abuse during Monday's (AEST) 1-1 draw away to Juventus and has called for change and "comprehensive action".
The 26-year-old French goalkeeper stood up to the abuse in a social media post but demanded action, with AFP reporting that Juventus have launched an investigation into the alleged incident.
Video on social media showed fans directing a torrent of abuse at Maignan as he warmed up prior to Monday's game at Turin's Allianz Stadium.
The incident is the second in Serie A this season after grounds were re-opened to fans, with alleged racist chants from Lazio supporters towards Milan midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko earlier this month.
Maignan posted on Twitter saying it was time for change and calling for comprehensive action.
"On Sunday evening at Allianz Stadium, Juventus supporters targeted me with racial slurs and cries," Maignan wrote on Twitter. "What do you want me to say? That racism is wrong and that these supporters are stupid? It’s not about that.
"I am neither the first nor the last player to have this happen. As long as these events are treated as ‘isolated incidents’ and no comprehensive action is taken, history is bound to repeat itself over and over and over again.
"What are we doing to combat racism in football stadiums? Do you really believe it’s effective? I am in a club that strives to lead the way by opposing all forms of discrimination. But we need to be more numerous and to be united in this battle for society which goes beyond football.
"In the proceedings, do the people who decide know what it feels like to hear insults and cries relegating us to the rank of animals? Do they know what it does for our families, for our loved ones who see it and who do not understand that it could still happen in 2021?
"I am not a ‘victim’ of racism. I am Mike, standing, black and proud. As long as we can give our voice to change things, we will."
Italian media reports have claimed that the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) are also considering their own investigation into the incident in Turin.
