Manchester United midfielder Fred has admitted he is deeply saddened that racism still exists in football after a City fan allegedly made monkey chants towards him during Saturday's derby at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking about the incident, Fred told The National: 'It is unfortunate that this happened. It also happened to me in Ukraine with some friends of mine. I only saw it after the game today. It's sad. Skin colour should not matter. But we have to raise our heads, we cannot give them attention when there is so much beauty to see.'
The Brazilian midfielder was also pelted with missiles, including cigarette lighters, when he went to take a corner in the same part of the Etihad Stadium during United's 2-1 victory.
'It's something difficult,' he added. 'We just want to play football, to do the best for our team and our supporters. It's the same for both teams.
'You shouldn't have to worry about what is happening outside the pitch but someone threw something at me and it hit me.'