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Neymar has hit out at Mallorca captain Antonio Raillo over controversial remarks directed towards Brazil team-mate Vinicius Jr.
The Real Madrid forward has been embroiled in a racism scandal after a Spanish agent told him to “stop playing the monkey” in reference to his dancing celebration.
Vinicius was then subject to a torrent of abuse from Atletico Madrid fans in Madrid’s recent derby victory, celebrating Rodrygo’s goal in his customary fashion after being urged to “keep on dancing” in a flood of support.
On Monday, Raillo cause further controversy when he accused Vinicius of using the “race card” when he is criticised.
“Vinicius should dance, but he shouldn’t be foul, he shouldn’t insult or belittle his fellow professionals; then when he is branded as provocative, he uses the race card,” he told Diario de Mallorca.
Neymar has subsequently responded on social media, replying to a post from TNT Sport Brasil and asking: “Who is Raillo?” – accompanying his comment with a laughing face emoji.
Brazilian footballers have unfortunately been on the receiving end of recent abuse, with the incident on Vinicius followed by a banana being thrown at Richarlison after he scored for the national side in a 5-1 friendly victory against Tunisia on Tuesday.
