Dayot Upamecano: Bayern Munich defender condemns racist abuse after Lazio defeat
Dayot Upamecano said “racism has no place anywhere” after the defender was subjected to racist abuse following Bayern Munich’s 1-0 defeat by Lazio.
Upamecano, 25, was sent off in the 67th minute of the first leg of Bayern’s Champions League last-16 tie, with Ciro Immobile scoring the resulting penalty.
Bayern Munich condemned the racist abuse directed at the centre-back on social media after the fixture.
“2024 and we still have to repeat it,” wrote Upamecano on Instagram.
“Making mistakes is part of football. I made one and I apologise to my team-mates and supporters.
“Everything remains possible at home and I believe in my team.
“Criticism is part of football but racism has no place anywhere. When in stadium, or on social media.”
Bayern Munich failed to have a shot on target in Rome, with the defeat increasing the pressure on manager Thomas Tuchel, having also lost 3-0 to Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen last Saturday.
The former Chelsea manager criticised Upamecano in his post-match press conference following the defeat at the Stadio Olimpico.
“We did everything we could to fall behind, making errors and losing confidence,” said Tuchel. “[There was] no need for Upamecano to go in like that. It’s not wild or intentional – but just block the shot.”
Bayern trail Bayer Leverkusen by five points in the Bundesliga and have already been eliminated from the German Cup.
Story by BBC sports
