Official Note - Accusation of prejudice
By Flamengo - in
"Renê is ugly, from the Northeast and is no one's friend. Brazilians are prejudiced and the masses are prejudiced." This statement was made by former player and current commentator Juninho Pernambucano, made today on "Seleção Sportv", to justify not using Flamengo's left-back in last Wednesday's match (28).
Clube de Regatas do Flamengo publicly regrets the serious and unfortunate accusation and is certain that the professional is profoundly unaware of the red-black history written by Dida, Zagallo, Junior, Nunes, Bebeto, Obina, Ronaldo Angelim, among others.
We are Brazil's Most Beloved Team because of our diversity. We are not a "mass fan base," we are a Nation. We are spread across 26 states and the Federal District, and we come in all colors, creeds, sizes, and genders. We are from the South, Southeast, Midwest, North, and Northeast. We are from Brazil and abroad. We are all, except a few! In our stands, the mix of accents, faces, social classes, and everything that makes up a human being will always be present.
Flamengo will always be at the forefront of every struggle. Whether it's against racism, for women's fight for respect in the workplace, social causes, or anything else relevant to building a better world. Our DNA doesn't mix with discrimination, much less xenophobia.
It's worth noting that the commentator made other criticisms, expressing opinions about the athletes and the club's management. Democratic and inclusive as we are, we respect freedom of expression, but we cannot accept an accusation of prejudice.
Finally, the non-use of Renê or any athlete in the squad is restricted to tactical, technical and physical choices, something that a commentator and former player should certainly know.