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Moise Kean racist abuse: Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci says comments were 'misunderstood'
Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has backtracked on comments he made after teammate Moise Kean suffered racial abuse following widespread criticism.
19-year old Kean was subjected to monkey chants during his side’s 2-0 win at Cagliari, responding with a defiant stance in front his abusers after scoring the decisive second goal.
Speaking immediately after the match, Bonucci appeared to suggest the young forward was partially response for the abuse through his actions.
“There were racist jeers after the goal, I think the blame is 50-50, because Moise shouldn’t have done that and the Curva should not have reacted that way” he told Sky Sport Italia.
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“We are professionals, we have to set the example and not provoke anyone.” He added
However, following a wave of criticism from the likes of Raheem Sterling and Yaya Toure, Bonucci has taken to Instagram to clarify his position, claiming he was ‘misunderstood’.
“After 24 hours I want to clarify my feelings. Yesterday I was interviewed right at the end of the game, and my words have been clearly misunderstood, probably because I was too hasty in the way I expressed my thoughts.”
A post shared by Leonardo Bonucci (@bonuccileo19) on Apr 3, 2019 at 1:56pm PDT
He continued, “Hours and years wouldn’t be enough to talk about this topic. I firmly condemn all forms of racism and discrimination.
“The abuses are not acceptable at all and this must not be misunderstood.”
Italian-born Kean, whose parents are Ivorian, has been at Juventus since the age of 10.
The talented teenager made his debut for the Italian national side against the United States last November and has scored twice in his three total appearances.
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