“He is insulted because he is a great player and because he is black” – Nico Williams on Vinicius Junior

On Tuesday, Spain and Brazil will meet at the Santiago Bernabeu for an international friendly – but rather than being the same as any other, this one has a clear message behind it, as it will be used to promote anti-racism in football Spanish. .

Vinicius Junior has been the biggest target of racism in La Liga in the last 12-18 months, and he will line up for Brazil at his club's stadium, Real Madrid. For La Roja, Nico Williams is likely to be on his left, as he was rested for Friday's 1-0 defeat to Colombia in London.

Williams will fully understand how serious racism is, and how much effect it can have. He met with Vinicius, and spoke AS Diary which is why he believes the 23-year-old is targeted so often – he also revealed he was racially abused during his own career.

“He is insulted because he is a great player and because he is black. It is very wrong and you have to cut things. Football is to be enjoyed, not used to insult.

“It's true that I've been targeted. We insist that you go to football for fun.”

It should be a cracking occasion at the Bernabeu on Tuesday, with two great teams going head to head. As Williams says, I hope those who go enjoy football.