Manchester United youngster Anthony Elanga has stated he was ‘subjected to a racist comment’ during Sweden U21s’ 1-1 draw against Italy on Tuesday.
The forward, who has excelled for his country in the UEFA U21 European Championship qualifiers by scoring four goals in five matches, started on the left wing against Italy.
After the final whistle, the Swedish football association’s official website released a statement saying the 19-year-old was at the receiving end of a unacceptable incident.
‘In connection with the U21 national team’s European Championship qualifier against Italy in Monza on Tuesday, Anthony Elanga has stated after the match that he has been subjected to a racist comment from an opponent in the Italian U21 national team,’ a statement read.
Claes Eriksson, head of the Sweden side U21 and youth team, has confirmed match officials have been informed about the incident and are waiting for a response, before deciding whether to take further steps.
“We have told our version of what happened and have submitted a verbal report to both the referees and the match delegates,” Eriksson is quoted as saying.
“Now we are waiting for feedback through the match report and the referee report. Once they have arrived, we will decide how to proceed. Security manager Martin Fredman is also informed of what has happened.
“No one should have to be exposed to racism, it is completely unacceptable. We all stand behind and support Anthony in this.”
Elanga has made one substitute appearance for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side, which came in the Red Devils’ EFL Cup defeat against West Ham United. He has been impressive in the Premier League 2, scoring three goals and registering one assist in three matches this season.
