‘As a Black player in Italy, we’re treated differently’ — Verona deny post relating to strange Orban red card

Hellas Verona have denied that Gift Orban criticised a referee on social media following his controversial red card against Parma.

Despite the account posing as the Nigerian striker, the club insist the post circulating online was not published by the former Super Eagles invitee.

Gift Orban was sent off just 11 minutes into Verona’s defeat after protesting a challenge from Enrico Del Prato in the centre circle.

The forward, visibly frustrated, gestured toward referee Luca Pairetto, who responded by issuing a straight red card and reducing Verona to ten men for the remainder of the match.

After the game, a post on X linked to Orban quickly gained traction. It read: “Sent off for protesting a decision. As a Black player in Italy, I can’t ignore how often we’re treated differently. I love the game, and all I ask for is fairness, respect, and equal treatment on the pitch.”

The message sparked debate online, with many questioning both the decision and the wider issue it referenced.

Verona were swift to distance their player from the statement. In an official message, the club clarified: “In relation to a post published today on a social media profile on X attributed to Gift Orban, Hellas Verona clarifies that this profile does not belong to Gift Orban.”

The denial aims to shut down speculation surrounding the striker’s stance on the incident, and saves the Nigerian star from possible disciplinary action from Serie A.

Since joining from Hoffenheim in the summer, Orban has been in solid form, recording seven goals and two assists in 22 league appearances. Despite the controversy, his performances on the pitch remain a bright spot in Verona’s campaign.