by Kadeem Simmonds

Patrick Vieira has taken to Twitter to condemn the appointment of Carlo Tavecchio as the president of the Italian FA.

Tavecchio made headlines last month when he called a fictional African player a banana-eater but was still elected for the top role of Italian football’s governing body.

After spending four years in Italy with Inter Milan, the Manchester City reserves manager has seen first-hand the issues surrounding racism in the country and feels that with this appointment comes a clear message that they don’t care about tackling the problem.

Vieira said: “I’m finding it really hard to believe that Carlo Tavecchio has been elected as president of the Italian FA after the comments that he made. 

“For me, that shows how far away the Italian football authorities are from dealing with discrimination. 63.63 per cent of those that voted are admitting that they aren’t fighting against racism, or that they don’t want to fight these problems. I played in Italy for years so I know the issues, I saw the issues.”

Having spent most of his career playing for Arsenal, the Frenchman applauded the way England has gone about addressing the problem.

“If he was an English man making this kind of comment, politically he would be completely out,” he added.

“This decision was made in football but I think it is bigger than football. It should make the whole country of Italy look at the message they want to send about what they think about racism.

“I can’t believe he will represent the Italian football authorities. What a shame.”

Speaking after his election Tavecchio said: “I will be a president for everybody, and especially for those who have legitimately expressed their dissent about me taking the job.

“I wish to thank those who have confirmed their confidence in me and who have made me feel supported even during some difficult times.

“Reforming the system can only be done if we work together, there are no magic wands.

“Let us embrace a culture of hard work. I invite all members to abandon feelings of division and to get to work.”