Denzel Dumfries was seen holding up a banner that depicted AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez as his dog during the title parade of Inter Milan.
Dumfries, who came on during the 84th minute of the title-clinching game for the Nerazzurri, and was red-carded in the final minutes of the game for a rash foul on Hernandez has been a crucial player for Inter Milan this campaign.
The pair were both red-carded in the clash for their respective misdemeanors as they got into a fight in stoppage time.
However, Simone Inzaghi’s side ultimately picked up a 2-1 win over neighbors AC Milan at the San Siro.
Footage showing Danzel Dumfries holding banner depicting Theo Hernandez as his “dog”
In the clip which has gone viral on social media, the sign hoisted by Denzel Dumfries showed an edited image from one of the popular ‘Grand Theft Auto’ games, with Theo Hernandez’s head photoshopped onto the body of a dog.
Dumfries, 28, was ecstatic holding the sign, as he moved it from side to side, with much delight.
Dumfries joined Inter Milan on August 14, 2021, from PSV Eindhoven for a fee of €14.25 million.
Denzel Dumfries has gone on to make 129 appearances, scoring 10 goals and providing 20 assists in all competitions.
This campaign, the former SC Heerenveen defender has amassed 33 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 6 assists across all competitions.
Several individuals have dished out their reactions to the actions of Dumfries, with many pointing out that what he did could have been perceived differently if it was the other way around.
They claim if it was Theo Hernandez, who is light-skinned that put up the flag, many would have played the racism card.
However, others rebutted, firing back by saying “what is bad is bad”, indicating that the actions of Denzel Dumfries were disrespectful.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the FIGC will open an investigation into the incident, with the Netherlands international expected to be fined.
Dumfries has had a successful spell at Inter Milan, winning several trophies, including; 1 Serie A title, 2 Coppa Italia, and 3 Supercoppa Italiana.
Dumfries on racism
Denzel Dumfries has in the past also offered his thoughts on racism, saying: “I don’t like to play the victim role, but such incidents do come.
“I want to hear what drives someone, to think that this is funny. I am very open about that.”
He added that jokes are part of football but it is always done within “frameworks” and with “respect”.
Dumfries added: “In a football team, jokes are part and parcel, but it is always done within frameworks and with respect. It is binding, we also show interest in each other, regardless of origin or religion.”
Internationally, Denzel Dumfries has made 52 appearances for the Netherlands, scoring 6 goals and providing 15 assists.
