Mourinho Imposes Media Blackout on Real Madrid and Racism Storm
Jose Mourinho has issued a strict directive to his Benfica squad, forbidding any discussion of Real Madrid or the ongoing racism allegations that have engulfed their Champions League tie. This move comes as UEFA investigates claims made by Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior against Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni.
UEFA Probe into Alleged Racial Slur
UEFA has launched a formal investigation after Vinicius Jr accused Prestianni of directing a racial slur at him during the first leg of their Champions League encounter. The Brazilian star alleges he was called a "monkey" by the Argentinian player, an assertion supported by his teammate Kylian Mbappe.
Prestianni has firmly denied the allegation, stating that Vinicius "misinterpreted what he thinks he heard." Despite this denial, the incident has drawn significant attention to both clubs and the upcoming second leg at the Bernabeu, where Real Madrid currently lead 1-0 on aggregate.
Mourinho's Controversial Comments
The Benfica manager himself has faced criticism for comments suggesting Vinicius' celebration contributed to the situation. After the match, Mourinho stated: "When you score a goal like that you celebrate in a respectful way," implying the Brazilian's exuberant reaction had incited players and fans.
Anti-racism charity Kick It Out has accused Mourinho of "gaslighting" Vinicius Jr, arguing that such comments shift blame away from the alleged racist behavior. When pressed on whether Vinicius had incited the reaction, Mourinho responded: "Yeah, I believe so. The words they exchange, Prestianni with Vinicius, I want to be independent. I don't comment about it."
Focus on Domestic Duties
According to reports from The Daily Mail, Mourinho has ordered his players to concentrate exclusively on their upcoming Primeira Liga fixture against bottom-placed AVS. He will not tolerate any discussion of the Madrid tie or related issues, aiming to maintain squad focus amid the controversy.
Real Madrid has confirmed it has submitted "all available evidence" to UEFA regarding the case, fully supporting Vinicius, who has faced numerous instances of racist abuse during his eight years at the club. The Lisbon incident marks the 20th time the Brazilian has alleged being subjected to such treatment while playing for Los Blancos.
The second leg at the Bernabeu promises to be a highly charged affair, with the racism allegations overshadowing the sporting contest. Mourinho's ban on Madrid talk represents an attempt to shield his players from the media storm as they prepare for both domestic and European challenges.
