Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. Subject of Effigy Hung on Bridge by Atlético Madrid Ultras

An effigy of Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. was hung off a bridge outside the club's training facility Thursday, ahead of a match against rival Atlético Madrid:

The banner attached to the bridge translates to "Madrid hates Real," via BBC Sport. Per ESPN's Alex Kirkland and Rodrigo Faez, the slogan is "associated with a group of Atlético ultras."

The clubs are set to face each other on Thursday in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals.

Vinicius, the 22-year-old Brazil international in his fifth year with Real Madrid, has often been the target of racial abuse in road matches, as detailed by Colin Millar of the Mirror.

La Liga said in a statement it "strongly condemns acts of hatred and intimidation against Vinicius Jr," while Atlético Madrid also called the act "repugnant."

"The rivalry between the two clubs is the greatest, but so is respect," the club said. "No individual, whatever their intentions or colours, can tarnish the coexistence between different supporters. It is everyone's responsibility to avoid this."

The Real Madrid star also released a statement, per Millar:

"Vinicius is aware of the situation but is focused on tonight's game. He will discuss the issue tomorrow with his club and legal staff, but his position remains the same as before: he expects punishment from the authorities, not official statements."

Authorities opened an investigation after Atlético fans sang racist songs targeting Vinicius during their La Liga battle in September. Prosecutors closed the case after three months, saying it was impossible to determine who was responsible, per BBC Sport.

The rivals are also scheduled to face off in La Liga play on Feb. 26.