Francesco Acerbi departed Italy’s training camp on Monday ahead of two friendly matches in the United States, citing rumors of an inquiry into alleged racial abuse directed at Napoli defender Juan Jesus.
According to a statement made by Italy’s Football Federation (FIGC), Inter Milan’s Acerbi informed his Azzurri colleagues and coach Luciano Spalletti of the alleged racist remark.
Acerbi reportedly stated that he had no intention of uttering libelous, disparaging, or racist remarks.
However, he accepted removal from the 28-man team called up for matches against Venezuela and Ecuador as Italy prepared to defend its European crown.
Gianluca Mancini of Roma replaces Acerbi on the squad. Acerbi is expected to face questions from the FIGCs.
During the match, Jesus, a Brazilian defender, appealed to the referee, pointing to Acerbi’s alleged racial remark and referencing the “Keep Racism Out” logo on his shirt.
After the game, Jesus downplayed the incident, noting that Acerbi had apologised, admitting he had “crossed a line.” Jesus asserted that they had settled the dispute, claiming, “What happens on the pitch, stays on the pitch.”
