A Brazilian footballer who moved to Ireland to learn English has opened up about the vile abuse and racism he’s experienced while playing here.
Felipe Assunção, who has previously had professional stints in Brazil with clubs Grêmio Barueri and Boa Esporte, revealed he has been called the “N-word” and a “monkey” in matches.
In an interview with The Irish Mirror, the 32-year-old from São Paulo in Brazil lifted the lid on the racist abuse he has received on the pitch since moving to Ireland in January.
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Felipe, who spoke through a translator, explained: “I haven’t been playing football that long in Ireland but in the short time that I have, I’ve experienced constant racism. I’ve been called the N-word and a monkey.
“I just want to play in peace. During my first-ever game in Ireland, after I scored, I heard some people shout something at me.
“My English isn’t great but I got the impression it was racist. My teammate confirmed it was after the game.
“When playing in Brazil, people might shout at you ‘you can’t play properly’ or ‘you’re sh*t’ whereas in Ireland it’s mainly racial slurs.
“I heard a lot of stuff about playing in Ireland before I moved here but I wanted to find out for myself but I want to make it clear, I have nothing against Ireland.
