Mancini moves up

Racism allegations: Acerbi not in the Italy squad

Francesco Acerbi will not be called up to the Italian national soccer team.(Bild: APA/AFP/Alberto PIZZOLI)

Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi will not feature in the upcoming international matches for the Italian national team after being accused of a racist insult in the Serie A match against Napoli.

The Italian Football Association announced the 36-year-old's departure from the Squadra Azzurra's training camp on Monday and the replacement of Gianluca Mancini. Acerbi is said to have insulted opponent Juan Jesus during the 1-1 draw on Sunday evening.

"He's a good guy"
According to the association, Acerbi denies the allegations. Nevertheless, the decision was made to leave the veteran out of the squad for the two friendlies in the USA so that the situation can calm down.

Inter also want to meet with the player as soon as possible to clarify the exact circumstances of the incident, according to the club. Jesus said after the game: "What happens on the pitch stays on the pitch." Acerbi had apologized, the Brazilian told DAZN. "He went a bit too far with his words. He's a good guy."