Juventus captain Giorgio Chiellini has backed teammate Moise Kean over his goal celebration.
Kean was subject to vile racist abuse during Tuesday's Serie A fixture.
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The 19-year-old Italian international then celebrated directly in front of the Cagliari fans, with his arms spread wide after scoring his side's second goal.
His gesture prompted a bitter response from Leonardo Bonucci who said Kean is partly to blame.
"There were racist jeers after the goal. Blaise (Matuidi) heard it and was angered. I think the blame is 50-50, because Moise shouldn't have done that and the Curva (fans) should not have reacted that way," he said.
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"We are professionals. We have to set the example and not provoke anyone."
Really?!
But his defensive partner Chiellini has defended Kean and he has spoken like a true leader.
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"Moise is an asset to Italian football, a golden boy who is doing his best and he doesn't have to pretend to be something he's not," the Juventus skipper said.
"I don't really remember what happened while I was on the pitch, but I've seen the pictures of Moise and he didn't do anything wrong.
"You have to think of him like people do (Nicolo) Zaniolo, (Federico) Chiesa, (Nicolo) Barella (who are all young Italy internationals)... as a positive representation of Italian football, because he deserves that status.
"The only thing he got wrong yesterday was the dive, which I'm sure he won't repeat, but he's here to learn. He's a very positive person and certainly didn't deserve the insults he received."
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Take note, Leonardo.
Raheem Sterling, whose also been subject to racist abuse this season, led the condemnation of Bonucci with a brilliant post on social media.
Here's hoping the Italian federation throw the book at Cagliari. A severe punishment is warranted.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Football, Moise Kean, Juventus, Giorgio Chiellini, Italy, Raheem Sterling
