Real Madrid striker Vinicius Junior has responded to criticism of his traditional goal celebration. During a discussion on a Spanish television, the sports agent, Well done Pedro, said that in Spain rivals should be respected and you should not dance like a monkey. It is understood that Bravo's statement received a flood of criticism and was considered racist by the sports opinion. The agent later apologized on Twitter, saying his statement was misunderstood, but Vinicius hit back at the Spaniard.
The Brazilian said:
"Accept it, respect it. In any case, I will not stop! A few weeks ago, some people started criticizing my dancing. But he is not only mine. The dances belong to Ronaldinho, Neymar, Paqueta, Griezmann, Joao Felix, Matheus Cunha, Brazilian funk singers, samba dancers, Latin singers and Afro-Americans. They are dances to celebrate the diversity of cultures in the world."
Vinicius added:
"They say that this happiness bothers them. Above all, the happiness of a black Brazilian who is successful in Europe annoys them. But my will to win, my smile and the sparkle in my eyes are much stronger."
The Galaxy striker has received messages of support from many other players and prominent football personalities. His teammate in the Brazilian national team, Neymar, has posted on his social networks a photo of him and Vinicius dancing. In support of Vinicius was the legend of world football, the Brazilian Pele, 3 times winner of the World Cup. The 81-year-old said:
"Football is a joy. It's a dance. It's a real party. Although racism still exists, we will not let that stop us from smiling.”
Real Madrid also issued an official statement in support of their Brazilian star.
