Vinicius Jr thanks Manchester United star after he urges La Liga to take ‘zero tolerance’ stance on racism
Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Junior has thanked Manchester United midfielder Casemiro after he urged La Liga to take action against racism.
Vinicius endured more racist abuse during Madrid's 1-0 defeat to Valencia on Sunday (May 21). The Brazilian had "monkey" chants directed his way and it's just the latest in a long series of racist incidents that have occurred this season.
The game was suspended at halftime when he pointed out to the referee who was abusing him. Vinicius was then sent off for violent conduct in the 90+7th minute after an altercation with Valencia forward Hugo Doro.
Reports claim that the attacker is set to hold an interview and urge Spanish football authorities to take more action. He may even threaten to leave Los Blancos if racism continues.
Vinicius' Brazilian teammate Casemiro has come to the player's defense by calling for La Liga to take a zero-tolerance response to racism. The Manchester United midfielder posted on Instagram:
"La Liga must take exemplary measures urgently, because these repeated incidents of racism stain the image not only of Spanish football, but also of all world football."
Casemiro then added:
"And the feeling should be unanimous: zero tolerance!!!"
Vinicius thanked his compatriot, responding:
"Thank you, Case! (love heart and prayer emoticons)"
The Madrid attacker's spell at the Santiago Bernabeu has been marred by constant racist abuse from rival fans. He has been in red-hot form this season, scoring 23 goals and providing 21 assists in 54 games across competitions.
His future is now the subject of speculation amid the player making clear he has had enough of having to put up with racism. It will now be up to the La Liga authorities to rectify the massive issue.
Manchester United will attempt to sign Vinicius if Sheikh Jassim becomes new owner
According to the Spanish publication Nacional, Sheikh Jassim wants to reinforce Erik ten Hag's squad at Manchester United if his takeover bid is successful. The Qatari businessman is in a two-horse race with INEOS chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe for the Red Devils' ownership. Bids have reached around £5.5 million for the Glazers to hand control over.
Sheikh Jassim wants to lure Madrid's Vinicius to Old Trafford and intends on making the Brazilian one of the best-paid players in world football. He currently sits on £186,000 at the Bernabeu, per Salary Sport.
Manchester United have signed two Madrid legends in the past two summer transfer windows. They lured Raphael Varane in 2021 for £41 million and Casemiro in 2022 for £70 million.
Both have been undisputed starters under Ten Hag this season and could be joined by their former Los Blancos teammate. However, Madrid president Florentino Perez is reportedly confident that the Brazilian won't leave.