Batshuayi claims to be victim of racial abuse

Bergamo (Italy) Feb 23 (IANS) Borussia Dortmund striker Michy Batshuayi has claimed to be a victim of racial abuse during their Europa League pre-quarterfinal second leg against Atalanta here.

"2018 and still racists monkey noises in the stands ... really ? hope you have fun watching the rest of @EuropaLeague on TV while we are through #SayNoToRacism #GoWatchBlackPanther. " the Belgian international wrote on Twitter after the game at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d Italia on Thursday.

Dortmund drew Atalanta 1-1 for a 4-3 aggregate win in the tie. The first leg in Dortmund had ended 3-2 in favour of the German football club.

Later Atalanta President Percassi issued an apology. "I ll be honest I didn t hear them. If they did happen then I am very sad and absolutely apologise to Batshuayi. This should never happen " he was quoted as saying by football-italia.net.

The 24-year-old Batshuayi is on loan at Dortmund from English champions Chelsea.

--IANS
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