The alleged racism incident during the Benfica–Real Madrid match has sparked debates in European football, centered on the verbal altercation between Vinicius Júnior and Gianluca Prestianni.
Benfica coach José Mourinho criticized UEFA’s preliminary suspension of Prestianni, emphasizing the importance of the presumption of innocence. However, he warned that any violations of respect and human rights principles would have serious consequences for his players.
Mourinho also clarified his relationship with Álvaro Arbeloa, stressing that the coach respects his neutrality and the decisions made in complex situations.