Flamengo's Matheus Thuler apologises for calling team-mate 'monkey' | OneFootball

Flamengo defender Matheus Thuler has apologised after appearing in an Instagram video in which he referred to team-mate Lincoln as “monkey”.

The live broadcast, which also involved midfielder Vinicius Souza, was cut shortly after the remark was made.

The video subsequently went viral, with many accusing Thuler of using a racist slur.

Both Thuler and Lincoln took to social media to downplay the incident.

“You are from my family and we are always together for whatever comes and goes! I sincerely apologize to anyone who may have been offended by playing with my brother Lincoln,” wrote Thuler.

Lincoln also posted a message on Instagram with the same image used by Thuler, and insisted he had not been offended by the remark.

“Guys, Thuler is my brother! We lived together daily for many years and he is part of my family! Intimacy we have had for over 7 years! I love you Thuleia,” wrote Lincoln.

A representative for Thuler defended the player’s comment, claiming it was a “joke between friends”.