Roma defender investigated for Lazio ‘rat’ flag celebrations

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The Italian Football Federation has initiated an inquiry into Gianluca Mancini of Roma after he brandished a flag portraying Lazio fans as ‘rats’ during Saturday’s events.

The defender netted the sole goal in Daniele de Rossi’s team’s victory over their local rivals at the Stadio Olimpico.

Mancini marked the triumph by displaying a flag featuring a black rat atop Lazio’s distinctive white and sky blue colors.

Lazio captain Ciro Immobile expressed his disapproval, deeming Mancini’s actions disrespectful.

“There are different ways you can celebrate, some people do it with style but other people not so much,” said Immobile.

Mancini ran around the perimeter of the stadium’s running track, waving the flag in front of the stand housing Roma’s hardcore support.

The Italy international, 27, later apologised for his actions and said he “didn’t want to offend anyone”.