Jose Mourinho breaks silence after criticism over Vinicius Junior incident with Benfica vowJose Mourinho was heavily criticised after accusing Vinicius Junior of inciting the Benfica crowd amid allegations that the Real Madrid star was on the receiving end of a racial slur from Gianluca PrestianniView 2 Images Jose Mourinho was criticised over comments on Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior (Image: UEFA via Getty Images)Benfica manager Jose Mourinho has insisted he will not look at Gianluca Prestianni "in the same way" if the Argentine is found guilty of directing a racial slur towards Vinicius Junior. Benfica winger Prestianni was accused of directing the slur at the Real Madrid star during their Champions League playoff first-leg fixture on February 17. ‌The confrontation between them led to a 10-minute delay in play as referee Francois Letexier initiated UEFA's formal anti-racism protocol. ‌Mourinho was heavily criticised after accusing Vinicius Jr of inciting the crowd with his goal celebration before the alleged racial slur in the first leg. ‌"If my player has not respected the principles, which are mine and those of Benfica, his career will end with me."

Source: Daily Mirror March 01, 2026 13:12 UTC