Roberto Carlos talks Vinicius, Courtois, Madrid derby, Ballon d’Or – ‘Very sure he’s going to win it’

Speaking at a public appearance earlier today, Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos gave his two cents about the controversial El Derbi last night between his former team and Atletico Madrid as well as Vinicius Jr.’s fight against racism.

Last night’s derby at the Civitas Metropolitano was marred with controversy as some fans of the home team threw objects at Thibaut Courtois, leading to the game getting suspended briefly.

Meanwhile, fans, donning masks to hide their identities, hurled vile abuse at both the Belgian as well as Vinicius during the match.

Carlos on the derby controversy

Giving his thoughts on what went down, Carlos insisted that the incidents do not paint La Liga in a good light and that Spanish football deserves better.

“What worries me most is the image of Spanish football. We are going to wait for the Federation to take the necessary decisions so that this situation of stopping a match for 20 minutes doesn’t happen again,” he said.

“I have lived in Spain for many years and this cannot happen. It was a shame. It’s time to put this right.”

On what steps can be taken to stop from such events occurring in the future, the Brazilian great remarked:

“The people responsible must do what they have to do. I don’t care about the club, what I want is for Spanish football to do well.”

As to the matter of fans showing up wearing masks and hoodies to conceal themselves and shout abuses at players last night, Carlos said:

“Yesterday was very sad. I have a lot of affection for the Atlético fans but what happened yesterday is not normal. The image is brutal.

“I think I’ve seen it in Mexico. To see an image of the hooded men makes an impression on me. They were already prepared for something, it was very strange.”

On Vinicius Jr.

Roberto Carlos also spoke in depth about Real Madrid talisman Vinicius Jr. and his recent statements about racism in Spain.

The Merengues’ legend insisted that Spain was not a racist country, but called for efforts to be made to root out the evil of racism.

“Vinicius may have said some phrases but it was an interview and if he makes a mistake I’ll pull his ears. Vinicius has to be treated with affection,” he said.

Continuing, he added: “I don’t think Spain is a racist country. I went to the pitch to enjoy myself and when I got the ball I expected people to get fed up.

“The Vini thing is over, the insults for being black. I am black and I have that joie de vivre for being black. And when we go, we all go down there. We have to put an end to racism.”

Further commenting on Vinicius, Carlos tipped him to win the Ballon d’Or saying: “Vini is super calm. He knows he is very close to being the best in the world.

“He played some great games last season and this year we are trying to make him more relaxed with the crowds and the Ballon d’Or is there. I’m very sure he’s going to win it.”

On Simeone and Thibaut Courtois

Following the match, Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone took a shot at Thibaut Courtois, claiming that the Belgian was guilty of provoking the fans after Real Madrid scored.

When asked about the Argentine tactician’s statements, Carlos refrained from commenting on the Atleti boss’ opinions, saying:

“Everyone has their own opinion. I could comment if Ancelotti had said something because he is the coach of my team. Simeone is not from my team. I have the utmost respect and the utmost affection and it is normal that he defends his colours.

“We know what the world of football is like. Simeone is a great coach but in the end, yesterday was a bad image.”

As to whether he felt Courtois was in the wrong last night, the former left-back said: “Everyone knows when they are wrong. I think they are a bit wrong because Courtois didn’t return the lighters to the stands either. He didn’t make any gestures or insult anyone.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo