Maradona backs Napoli defender Koulibaly after coming under racial attacks from Inter fans

Maradona backs Napoli defender Koulibaly after coming under racial attacks from Inter fans

- Diego Maradona has shown solidarity to embattled Napoli defendr Kalidou Koulibaly

- The 27-year-old was racially abused during a Boxing Day Serie A match with Inter

- The Neazzuri have been handed a two-match stadium-close banned by the Italian FA

Football legend Diego Maradona has thrown his weight behind in-form defender Kalidou Koulibaly after coming under racial attacks from fans.

The Senegal international was targeted by Inter Milan supporters in Napoli's Boxing Day fixture at the San Siro after he was sent off for a second bookable offence.

And the 27-year-old has now become a beacon for huge campaign against racism with thousands of supporters showing their solidarity with the player with masks and banners.

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The center-back was also backed by his professional footballers and the latest to come to his aid is Napoli legend Maradona.

The World Cup winner with Argentina who played in Naples between 1984 and 1991 also revealed how he was subjected to vile chants during his time in the Italy.

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The 58-year-old said: "I played for seven years in Napoli, and I also suffered the racist songs of some fans".

"I still remember the flags that said "Welcome to Italy".

"I feel Neapolitan and today I want to be with Kalidou Koulibaly.

"I hope that all this helps to ends racism in football once and for all.

"Greetings to all! #NoRacism"

Manchester United star Paul Pogba has also shown solidarity with Koulibaly, as the Frenchman wore a wristband during Manchester United's 4-1 win over Bournemouth with a message of support on.

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The Italian FA have handed Inter were given a two-game stadium closure after the racist chants during the Nerazzurri's 1-0 win over Napoli.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had earlier reported that Premier League giants, Chelsea have not made a move for AC Milan striker Gonzalo Higuain to replace struggling Alvaro Morata, according AC Milan sporting director.

Maurizio Sarri's squad had lacked the finishing touch upfront as the Spain international has flopped since swapping Real Madrid for Stamford Bridge.

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Akan Anwankwo avatar

Akan Anwankwo Akan Anwankwo is a sports editor, a graduate of English Language and Literature Studies at the University of Lagos. He's passionate about what he does and finds fulfillment in informing readers.