Cristiano Ronaldo insists action must be taken to stop racism in football after Kevin-Prince Boateng was targeted in a friendly.
AC Milan star Boateng walked off the field, prompting his team-mates to do the same, following racial abuse from Pro Patria fans on Thursday.
FIFA supremo Sepp Blatter initially blasted the midfielderââ¬â¢s actions, labelling his decision to leave the pitch as ââ¬Årunning awayââ¬.
But superstar Ronaldo claims Boatengââ¬â¢s decision was a personal one that was his alone to make.
The Real Madrid ace said: ââ¬ÅWhy this racism is still happening is incredible.
ââ¬ÅI think it was a very personal decision by him â⬔ if heââ¬â¢s very angry, if heââ¬â¢s sad, if heââ¬â¢s feeling particularly sensitive, then thatââ¬â¢s his decision. It depends on how you are feeling at that moment.
ââ¬ÅWe have to deal with these people in the stadium â⬔ perhaps they have a screw loose.ââ¬
Former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola also backed Boatengââ¬â¢s decision and reckons it could deter racists in the future.
The Spaniard said: ââ¬ÅMaybe it was a good step to take. Maybe with Milan dealing with this situation in that way means that it wonââ¬â¢t happen again.ââ¬
Barca star Andres Iniesta added: ââ¬ÅThe sad thing is that these things actually do happen. It is a very sad thing and a personal reaction by him.ââ¬