Liverpool midfielder Gini Wijnaldum became the latest black footballer to get racially abused on social media. A frustrated minority vented their anger following the second leg quarter-final match against Real Madrid.
Liverpool bowed out of the Champions League as a goalless draw at Anfield meant that Los Blancos progressed to the tournament’s semi-final stage due to their 3-1 win in the first leg at Madrid.
The Reds contingent fought hard in the first half but a lack of cutting edge in front of the goal, along with Thibaut Courtois’ superb form, ensured that the Merseyside-based club will remain trophyless this season.
Wijnaldum abused
Gini Wijnaldum has been a reliable servant for Liverpool whenever called upon but just like the whole squad, the Dutchman has found it hard to match the level he is known for this season.
The midfielder took to his social media accounts following the exit from the Champions League last night and was met with a barrage of racial abuse from a certain section of the fans.
One could see the replies section flooded with hateful messages and ‘monkey emojis’ as the post went live on Instagram –
Wijnaldum’s Instagram😳 pic.twitter.com/gTWfI8ZTiv
— Ryan Pinchen (@PinchTRFC) April 14, 2021
It also appears that despite reporting an account manually, Instagram has refrained from taking any action –
Instagram is not doing anything about it even if u report them pic.twitter.com/yYxoy8OzHx
— EnzoDelcris🇬🇭 (@EnzoDelcris) April 14, 2021
Gini’s future at the club
Georginio Wijnaldum has found himself in the limelight for reasons pertaining to matters beyond the pitch this season as the Dutch midfielder has so far refused to sign an updated contract with Liverpool.
Though he continues to remain a key element for Jurgen Klopp’s side, Gini has been heavily rumoured to join Ronald Koeman at Barcelona next season.