AC Milan Goalkeeper Maignan Calls For Tougher Sanctions In Fight Against Racism
AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan has called for tougher sanctions after getting racially abused on Saturday.
Maignan was playing in AC Milan's 3-2 win at Udinese in Serie A when he was targeted by the home side.
After making a report to the referee, Maignan was joined by his colleagues to walk off the field before they returned for play to resume later.
“I heard them making monkey noises,” Maignan told Milan TV.
“After it happened a second time, I went to the dugout to inform them of what had happened behind the goal.
“This shouldn’t exist in the world of football, but unfortunately for many years this is a recurrence.
“We all have to react, we must do something because you can’t play like this.”
He continued: “We accept the boos because that’s how it is away from home, but this issue of racism must not reach this level.
“With all the cameras present and sanctions for these things, something must be done to change things.”
Maignan received support on social media after the match, Milan posting on X, formerly Twitter: “There is absolutely no place in our game for racism: we are appalled. We are with you, Mike.”
Inter, leaders of Serie A, were quick to reply to the post in support of their city rivals.
The Nerazzurri added on X: “We are brothers of the world, against all forms of discrimination. By your side.”
The official account of the league, @SerieA, added: “The league condemns all forms of racism.”
