A haunting mannequin designed with an image of Vinicius Junior was seen at a bridge in Spain on Wednesday.
A clear red and white banner was also dropped alongside the mannequin hinting that it was from Atletico Madrid fans.
The banner caption says: “Madrid hates Real,“. This mannequin has triggered a long-standing rivalry between the two clubs.
The image has generated a lot of emotional outrage and both Atlectico and Real Madrid have come out to condemn it.
“Acts like this are absolutely repugnant and inadmissible and shame society. Our condemnation to any act that attacks the dignity of people or institutions is categorical and unreserved. The rivalry between the two clubs is at its maximum, but so is respect. No individual, whatever their intentions or colours, can stain the coexistence between different fans,” Atletico’s official statement read in part.
“LaLiga strongly condemns acts of hatred and intimidation against [Vinicius Junior]. LaLiga, as in the past, will press for an investigation into the matter by relevant state security forces and bodies, seeking convictions for those responsible and requesting the most severe sentences,” Spanish football had condemned the act with the statement.
Vinicius Jr is often targeted by the Atleti fans for reasons as trivial as the fact that the forward often celebrates his goal with a Brazilian dance.
Recommended posts:
The 250th El Clásico Real Madrid vs. Barcelona
Another miracle in Madrid! More Champions League misery for Man City as Rodrygo resurrects Real.
Barcelona 2-3 Real Madrid: Federico Valverde strikes winner in extra-time to settle El Clasico thriller.
Qatar 2022: Controversy surrounding Brazil’s final 26-man squad
