Former Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure believes racism in football is getting worse because “fans are more stupid than before”.
The shocking trend shows no signs of declining with a number of high-profile incidents in recent months.
In November, Brescia’s Mario Balotelli – a former team-mate of Toure – called fans who shouted racist abuse at him “small-minded” and “imbeciles”, while Cagliari fans made monkey noises towards Inter Milan’s Romelu Lukaku earlier in the season.
This month Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport was criticised for the headline ‘ Black Friday ‘ alongside images of Roma defender Chris Smalling and Lukaku.
But the problem is not restricted to Italy, with a man having been arrested after this month’s Manchester derby for allegedly making a racist gesture.
Toure has spoken with FIFA about what can be done but knows there is no quick fix.
“I’ve had a chat with FIFA because this is something very important which we have to look at carefully,” said the former Ivory Coast international.
“I know it will be difficult because the way to win this case is going to be very long.
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
