Bellingham calls racism in Spanish football a 'big problem'

Jude Bellingham says black players like Vinicius Jr need more support to tackle the 'big problem' of racism in Spanish football I think it is necessary. Real Madrid's star midfielder also said some players were victims of "terrible" racism.

Real Madrid will face Manchester City tonight in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals at the Etihad Stadium.Bellingham spoke about racism in yesterday's press conference before the second leg.

The England star said he and his Real team-mates were used to racist behavior in Spain's opposition half. Bellingham also believes authorities are not doing enough to fix the problem.

Real defensive midfielder Andrej Thuameni was subjected to racist abuse during Real's 1-0 win against Real Mallorca in La Liga last Saturday. Television footage showed spectators making racist comments towards the French star. Mallorca said a search operation for the visitor was underway with the help of police. And Bellingham's Real teammate Vinicius has been the victim of racist behavior in Spanish football in recent seasons. There was no excitement about it. However, racism in Spanish soccer is not going away anytime soon.

Bellingham said at a press conference: It's a terrible experience for a player to be the victim of racist behavior. You have to prepare with that in mind. This brutality is unjust. The authorities should play a more important role.

Mr Bellingham said he had no knowledge that Thuameni had been subjected to such behavior because racism was so common in Spanish football. Regarding tackling racist behavior, the Real star said: "Those who are in charge have to take the decision, but I don't think something like that will happen." We have to face these things on the field.

Bellingham said of Vinicius' repeated racist treatment, "Those in power need to do more, especially for Vinny." The way he plays and the way he expresses himself puts more and more blame on him, and I think that's unfair. If Vinny were to miss the game for such a reason, he would be out of the game.

City beat Real 4-0 in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final when they met at the Etihad 14 months ago. In addition to winning the Champions League, Pep Guardiola's team also won the Treble. Asked if Real were "underdogs" in the game, Bellingham replied: "Everyone is talking about that because of their performance." It's a great team. We are also Real Madrid. Our team is also good. There are some great players. we believe in ourselves.