Gianluca Prestianni has told UEFA he directed a homophobic slur at Vinicius Junior rather than a racist comment during Benfica's match against Real Madrid, according to reports. European football's governing body is investigating 'allegations of discriminatory behaviour' after claims Prestianni called the Real Madrid winger a 'monkey' while covering his face during the Champions League tie on Tuesday. The Madrid boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso just last month, also encouraged UEFA to 'punish' Prestianni. Meanwhile, as exclusively revealed by Daily Mail Sport this week, Jose Mourinho has banned all mention of Real Madrid among his Benfica squad following the allegations of racism. I think that would be unjustifiable, and I believe that nothing Vinicius did justifies a racist act.'

Source: Metro February 21, 2026 12:47 UTC