Kyle Walker has called for more to be done to prevent online abuse after the Manchester City defender received a “vile, racist and threatening” message after insulting the club. Losing 2-0 to Juventus.
Walker was part of the side that was beaten in Turin as Pep Guardiola's side suffered their seventh defeat in 10 matches.
“No one should ever have to be subjected to the kind of vile, racist and threatening abuse I have received online since last night’s game,” Walker wrote on his X and Instagram accounts.
“Instagram and the authorities must stop this from happening for the sake of all who suffer this abuse. This is never acceptable.
Manchester City strongly condemns the racist abuse directed at Kyle Walker online after last night's match.
– Manchester City (@ManCity) December 12, 2024
“To our fans, we will continue to work as a team to do better, get better and get through things together.”
The city quickly condemned the racist attack. A club statement said: “Manchester City strongly condemns the racist abuse directed at Kyle Walker online after last night’s match.
“We refuse to tolerate discrimination of any kind, regardless of whether it is on the playing field or online.
“We will give Kyle our full support after the disgusting treatment he has received.”
Walker, 34, joined City for £50m in the summer of 2017 and won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and the Champions League with the club.
The Premier League statement said: “The Premier League condemns all forms of discrimination. Racism has no place in our game or anywhere in society. We encourage anyone who hears or sees discriminatory abuse to report it so action can be taken.
“The Premier League will support Kyle Walker and the club to tackle online hate.”
