Vinicius Jr was down to tears as he answered queries by journalists on racist attacks in his career, LCSoccerHub Reports.
The Real Madrid sensation made Brazil’s squad for March international friendly and was a glaring presence as the Selecao put the Three Lions to the sword at Wembley, condemning the injury-stricken squad to their first defeat in 15 months.
He was instrumental to the victory as his near-miss was poked home by 17-year-old substitute Endrick to hand Brazil a narrow late win.
The Real Madrid forward will return to the lineup again as Brazil wrap up their March international break with a cracker friendly against Spain at Santiago Bernabeu.
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It will be a homecoming for the Brazilian football superstar, playing in his club Real Madrid’s homegrown, moreso, a moment of reflection for the footballing sensation taking on Spain, in whose soil he has grappled with mixed fortunes – one with a bright career with Spain’s biggest club Real Madrid and another with bouts of racist attacks in the league.
Ahead of the game against La Roja, Vinicius Jr was asked about the frequent bouts of racist attacks he has endured in his career in Spain and whether he was considering leaving Spain due to the attacks.
Responding to the query, the 23-year-old went emotional, breaking down in tears as he elaborated on his sad experience with the challenges of racism.
“Verbal racism happens not only in Spain but also throughout the world. Every day I go home I feel sadder. Nobody is supporting me.
“Sorry, I just want to play football, and do everything for my club and my family.”
Vinicius Jr has been a regular target for racist football fans during LaLiga matches. He was racially abused by Atletico Madrid, Valencia, including Mallorca fans.
Real Madrid recently filed legal proceedings against a recent abuse of the player by Atletico Madrid fans during the club’s Champions League quarterfinal second-leg against Inter Milan at the Civitas Metropolitano Stadium.
When asked whether he had thought of leaving Spain due to the incessant vitriols of racism, he said no because it would mean a win for the racists.
“I have never thought about leaving Spain, because that would be giving the racists what they want. I’m not going to leave the best club in the world,” he said defiantly. “The racists are a minority; I’m going to remain firm and strong because the president and the club support me.”
Regarded as one of the most promising young forwards, Vinicius Jr has been on a stellar run for Real Madrid this season. He has scored 18 goals in all competitions.
