Even seasoned football stars can lose their cool—and Francesco Acerbi was a clear example this week during a meet-and-greet event far from home.
The Inter Milan defender, currently in the U.S. with his club, had an unexpected confrontation with a fan wearing a PSG shirt—one that quickly went viral online.
Still Stinging from the Champions League Final
The tension all ties back to a night Inter Milan would probably rather forget.
Just last month, they were handed a brutal 5-0 defeat by Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final—marking the biggest margin of loss ever seen in the competition’s history.
One of the more painful moments from that night? Acerbi being left sprawled on the turf after some dazzling footwork from PSG’s Bradley Barcola.
And in Seattle this week, a cheeky fan decided to bring that moment up—directly to Acerbi’s face.
“I’ll Beat the S*** Out of You”—Acerbi Snaps
Caught on video, the 37-year-old defender didn’t exactly take the taunt in stride.
Visibly irritated, Acerbi asked for help from a translator to make sure the fan understood he wasn’t amused.
The translator, caught on camera, warned the fan: “You must be serious with him.”
Acerbi then stepped in himself and, speaking in Italian, delivered a sharp message: “Don’t make fun of me—I don’t like it. I’m crazy, I’ll beat the s*** out of you.”
Despite the heat of the moment, Acerbi composed himself shortly after and continued taking photos with other fans.
Drama Off the Pitch Too
This isn’t the first time Acerbi has made headlines lately.
Just weeks ago, he turned down a national team call-up for Italy’s World Cup qualifiers, openly accusing then-coach Luciano Spalletti of disrespect.
In a social media post, Acerbi explained his decision to step back:
“It’s not a decision I’ve taken lightly.
But under the current circumstances, I can’t continue with peace of mind.”
He added pointedly: “I demand respect. If that’s missing from the coach—who’s meant to lead us—then I’d rather walk away.
I won’t stay where I’m clearly not part of the plan.”
Spalletti was later sacked, but Acerbi’s stance marked a significant crack in Italy’s team unity.
Back to Business in Japan
Despite the drama, Acerbi is still part of Inter Milan’s plans on the pitch.
The Italian side is now shifting focus to their next challenge: a Club World Cup clash against Japan’s Urawa Reds this Saturday.
Let’s just hope the only footwork Acerbi sees this time is from his teammates—and not another cheeky fan.