João Vitor Gobi apologises after São Paulo v Santos players allege insult | OneFootball

João Vitor Gobi, referee for São Paulo v Santos at Morumbis on Saturday in the Paulistão, has apologised for using an inappropriate expression during the match. He did so after players alleged he insulted Santos left-back Vinicius Lira.

"It is unbelievable how Brazilian referees look for controversy. They ask for respect but do not respect. He insulted their left-back, told him to go to that place. If he wants to stop that behaviour, he should respect us. The way he handled it is disrespectful to us players," said São Paulo defender Sabino to HBO Max.

"In the second straight match of ours that he officiates, he lacked respect for our players. He insulted Lira, sent him to that place. Then he wants to demand respect. Action must be taken," said Santos midfielder Zé Rafael.

On Tuesday, Gobi said refereeing the clássico is a privilege and a challenge, and that, in the heat of the game while trying to maintain discipline, he used an inappropriate term. He apologised, said he did not address any player directly to offend, accepted the expression was unsuitable in any setting, and added the lapse did not reflect his values as he remains committed to a more respectful game.

Players from both sides voiced their complaints at half-time.

Source: Globo.com