Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams said he was racially abused by âstupid peopleâ during his teamâs 3-1 defeat at Atletico Madrid on Saturday in La Liga.
Williams spoke with the referee after hearing the alleged abuse when he was preparing to take a corner in the first half, and play was held momentarily as supporters were warned.
The Spain winger scored shortly afterwards and celebrated by tapping his arm, indicating the colour of his skin.
âI went to take the corner and I heard monkey noises,â Williams told DAZN.
âThere werenât many of them. There are stupid people everywhere… I hope this changes bit by bit.â
Williams said his celebration was a response to those who insulted him.
âIt was with a bit of anger, itâs not normal to be insulted for the colour of your skin,â he added.
Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke offered Williams âsupport and strengthâ after the game.
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âIn our society there is no place for people who insult like that,â said Koke.
âAtletico Madrid and all our fans are in favour of Nico and against these situations, which should not happen in a football stadium or in society.
âIt canât happen in the year weâre in or the society weâre in.â
Spanish football has suffered a spate of racist incidents in recent years, many of which have been aimed at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.
Athletic, fifth, is now six points behind fourth place Atletico Madrid in the race for Champions League qualification with five league games remaining.
Source Agencies
