Real Madrid footballer Vinicius Junior is back in the spotlight after his comments this week. In them, he called for Spain to be stripped of the 2030 World Cup if it is unable to contain the racism he suffers. His words have not gone unnoticed by the world of football, and many have asked him to rectify those comments, and even to say that what he says about Spain is not true.
One of those voices that wanted to respond to the Real Madrid player is Milinko Pantic , who was a player for Atlético de Madrid in the years of the double, with Radomir Antic as coach. The Serbian wanted to make it clear that Spain is a country where foreigners can be just as respected as locals. He did so in statements to Radio Marca , where he usually collaborates on some programs as a commentator.
"I have lived in Spain for 29 years and it is a wonderful country. The people of Spain are not racist, but, as in all countries, there are some idiots who ruin it. Here, after five minutes, you are just another one. Living in Spain is a privilege, and Vinicius knows that perfectly well," he said.
Griezmann must always be among the best
The former coach of Atlético B once criticised the Brazilian for his recent behaviour, defending the integration of foreign footballers who, like him, have been living in Madrid for many years.
He had words for Antoine Griezmann 's absence from the Ballon d'Or. "Griezmann must always be among the best because of his quality. Griezmann is a genius who sees football in a different way," he concluded. "Griezmann must always be among the top five because of his quality."
Regarding the Spain-Serbia match that will be played tonight, Milinko Pantic said: "Playing against Spain is a punishment for any team in the world. You don't know where they are going to attack you, with Lamine, Nico, Pedri, and two players missing like Morata and Rodri," he said.
Dani Carvajal would be his Ballon d'Or
Milinko Pantic would give the Ballon d'Or to Dani Carvajal , "for his career and for being one of the best in history," he explained.
The '10' of the year of the double, who was one of the stars of Radomir Antic 's team, coincided with Diego Pablo Simeone in the team. Although they have had recent exchanges of words and their relationship is not the best, let's say. Despite this, the Serbian speaks openly about the current situation of the team he loves.
"Big teams always fight for everything, and Atlético de Madrid is a big team. Atlético fans know that they have a great team and are a real favourite for everything."