"It is never acceptable" - Kyle Walker publicly calls out racist abuse after Manchester City defeat to Juventus
Kyle Walker has shared a racist message he received from a fan on Instagram after Manchester City's 2-0 loss to Juventus (December 11). The English right-back has said the social media platform and the authorities need to do better.
The 34-year-old posted on X the vile abuse he received in his Instagram messages after the defeat at the Allianz Stadium. He wrote in response:
"No one should ever be subject to the sort of vile, racist and threatening abuse I have receieved online since last night's match. Instagram and the authorities need to stop this happening for the sake of all who are suffering this abuse. It is never acceptable."
He added:
"To our fans, we will continue to work as a team to do better, to improve, and to turn the corner together."
Manchester City released a statement on its official website condemning the abuse:
"Manchester City strongly condemns the racist abuse that Kyle Walker was subject to online following last night’s fixture. We refuse to tolerate discrimination of any kind, regardless of whether that be in stadiums or online. We will be offering Kyle our full support following the disgusting treatment he has received."
Walker captained Manchester City against Juve and played the full 90 minutes. The defeat means the Cityzens have won just once in 10 games. It's a worrying period for Pep Guardiola's team, who sit 22nd in the UEFA Champions League standings.
Pep Guardiola said Manchester City will have to face 'great difficulties'
Guardiola is enduring the worst season of his managerial career amid City's shock run of form. They have faltered in the title race, sitting fourth, eight points off leaders Liverpool.
The Spaniard was asked about the situation after City's loss to Juve. He acknowledged that the club would have to suffer a difficult spell while also touching on speculation over a potential sacking (via The Mirror):
"Do Man City send me home? If so, I go home. What can you do in life? Life doesn't always go the way one wants... I sincerely believe that it will be a year with great difficulties. We have to find continuity. But if we make it through, it won't be easy for someone to face us."
Guardiola led City to six Premier League titles and a continental treble before this season's ongoing struggles. He signed a new contract extension in November but has failed to oversee a turnaround at the Etihad.