Group C of the UEFA Europa League is in full swing, and the Austrian team won 3-1 against North Macedonia. In the focus of the game, the Austrian substitute, Shanghai Harbor striker Arnautovic accidentally involved in a suspected "racial discrimination" controversy.
Towards the end of the match, Arnautovic helped Austria seal the win with a brilliant solo goal, and he was emotional after the goal. However, this passion seems to be related to North Macedonian defender Alioski, after the other team in the defense against the Austrian team in a number of excessive action, provoked Arnautovic.
Rumors have surfaced that Arnautovic was suspected of racial discrimination when he spoke out against Alioski's Albanian mother after scoring a goal. UEFA has zero tolerance for such remarks and invests significant resources in anti-racism campaigns every year and airs relevant public service announcements at European tournaments.
It's worth noting that Arnautovic's father is Serbian and his mother Austrian, and there is a long history of conflict between Serbia and Albania.
In the face of public pressure, Arnautovic quickly issued a statement, saying, "Last night, due to my emotions, I used excessive words, for which I am deeply sorry, and I especially apologize to my friends from Northern Macedonia and Albania. I want to be clear: I am not a racist! I have friends all over the world and I stand for diversity. Those who know me know this."
However, it is still unknown whether UEFA will accept Arnautovic's apology and impose additional penalties on him. Meanwhile, the foreign media revealed that Arnautovic will leave Shanghai after the Europa League and head to Serie A.
