Alejandro Balde from Barcelona speaks out against racist abuse during Getafe draw

Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde spoke out against racist abuse he received from Getafe supporters during a 1-1 draw in La Liga on Saturday. Balde expressed his disappointment in a post-match interview, stating, "I received racist insults from some fans today, and I believe it is important to address this issue. This behavior should not be tolerated." The defender reported the abuse to the referee during the game, leading to the activation of Spain's racism protocol and a public announcement urging fans to stop. Balde's response highlights the ongoing issue of racism in football and the need for collective action to combat it.

Flick said those shouting racist abuse should not come to matches.

"There's no space for this in football or in life, this is unbelievable, in the time (we live in now) it's totally wrong," Flick told reporters.

"They have to stay at home. Not go to the match, they have to stay at home.

"I think we have to fight against them, it's the best thing, and the people around them can also do something... I think everyone can do it."

Earlier Saturday, in Spain's second division, Elche player Bambo Diaby also faced racist abuse in a 1-1 draw at Sporting Gijon.

There have been numerous instances of racism in Spanish football stadiums in recent years, with Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior often targeted for abuse.

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In November three fans were arrested after racist abuse was aimed at Balde and his Barcelona team-mate Lamine Yamal in the Clasico against Real Madrid.

(This story has not been edited by staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)