Barcelona boss Xavi says he does not agree with Pep Guardiola’s pessimism over Spanish football’s ability to combat racism, following the racial abuse recently suffered by Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior.
Swathes of prominent figures in the game have come out to fiercely condemn the chants that were directed at the Brazilian by some Valencia fans last Sunday.
La Liga President Javier Tebas has been heavily criticised for the manner in which he responded to Vinicius’ post-game statement that the league “belongs to racists”.
ALSO READ: Guardiola 'not optimistic' over Vinicius Jr racism row
While claiming that the player had missed two apparent meetings that had been organised to discuss ways to tackle racism in a tweet, the Spanish football chief added: “Before criticising and insulting @LaLiga, it is necessary that you inform yourself properly @Vinijr.”
Former Spain international and Barcelona manager Guardiola was asked to give his thoughts on the issue in Friday’s press conference ahead of Manchester City’s final day Premier League clash with Brentford.
After criticising the abuse suffered by Vinicius and calling for change, the Blues manager said: “We need to accept the diversity as a strength, like a human being - and still right now, we are far away from that.
“Hopefully it can be one step to getting better in Spain but I’m not optimistic. I know a little bit the country and I’m not really optimistic.”
Barcelona head coach Xavi says he does not agree with that line of thought when asked to respond to those Guardiola comments on Friday.
He said, as per Marca: "I disagree with Pep. And I agree with him on almost everything, but not here. It is an educational issue. If we stay as we are, we will not advance but if the game stops the other day and they go home, we are educating. Insults are not normal. It is a matter for the state, federations, government, La Liga.”
READ NEXT
