José Mourinho has been criticised for his response to Vinícius Júnior's allegation of racist abuse during Real Madrid's Champions League playoff win against Benfica. The Benfica manager said to Amazon Prime: 'I told him: "When you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back." They [Vinícius and Prestianni] told me different things. But I don't believe in one or another. I want to be an independent.' He also appeared to comment on previous incidents, stating: 'There is something wrong because it happens in every stadium. A stadium where Vinícius plays, something happens, always.'
Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out responded strongly, accusing Mourinho of gaslighting. A spokesperson said: 'When anyone reports discrimination in football, or anywhere, the first priority is that they are listened to and feel supported. Focusing on Vinícius Jr's goal celebration or the history of the club, instead of acknowledging the report, is a form of gaslighting. This approach not only harms the individual affected but also sends the wrong message to others around the world who may have experienced similar situations.'
Former Netherlands midfielder Clarence Seedorf also criticised Mourinho, saying: 'He's saying it's OK when Vinícius provokes you … and I think that is very wrong.' The match was delayed for 10 minutes after Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni was alleged to have called Vinícius a monkey while covering his mouth. Kylian Mbappé publicly accused Prestianni of the slur five times. Prestianni has denied racial abuse, claiming he said 'maricon' instead.
Uefa has appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to investigate the incident. Because the referee did not hear the comment, the inspector must attempt to reach a conclusion based on disputed accounts. Benfica said they would collaborate but reiterated support for Prestianni, who they said was a victim of a 'smear campaign'. The Portuguese authority APCVD is also investigating reported racist gestures and noises from Benfica fans.
Vinícius did not speak after the game but posted on Instagram: 'Racists are above all cowards [who] need to put their shirts over their mouth to demonstrate how weak they are.' Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni told reporters: 'Vini says the boy said "monkey" with his shirt like this … Then the boy said that he didn't say anything, that he said maricon or something.' If charged and found guilty, Prestianni could face a 10-match ban.
