Vinicius Junior: Benfica claim ‘defamation campaign’ against Gianluca Prestiani after racism accusation

José Mourinho, the manager of Benfica, stated in his post-match interview that he received conflicting information about the incident from both Vincius and Prestiani.

Mourinho, who managed Real for 178 games between 2010 and 2013, said Vinicius had behaved disrespectfully in his goal celebration and pointed to his legendary striker Eusebio as proof that Benfica is not a racist club.

Benfica said, “The club clearly and unequivocally reaffirms its historic and steadfast determination to defend the values ​​of equality, respect and inclusion, which are in line with the core values ​​of its foundation and of which Eusébio is their greatest symbol.”

The comments by Mourinho and Benfica have been criticised by many.

This includes the anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out.

Kick It Out chairman Sanjay Bhandari said both the club and the manager had “failed.”.

“It’s a instinct to trust your player, but the reality is they didn’t listen to it,” Bhandari told BBC Sport.

“There were only two people in that conversation and two people could hear what was said.

“I think the best response from a club of the outstanding stature of Benfica would be for us to cooperate with the investigation.

“It’s quite common after these types of discriminatory incidents. Discrimination is one thing; gaslighting is another.”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he was “shocked and saddened” by the incident and praised Letexier for activating anti-racism protocols.

“There is absolutely no room for racism in our sport and society – we need all relevant stakeholders to take action and hold those responsible accountable,” he said.

“I will always repeat: no to racism, no to discrimination of any kind!”