Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been filmed training at Real Madrid’s Bernabeu Stadium, despite being suspended for the second leg of their Champions League playoff due to allegations of racial abuse against Vinicius Junior.
The Argentine attacker is accused of using a racial slur toward Vinicius during last week’s 1-0 loss at the Estadio da Luz. Both Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe claim to have heard the term, although Prestianni has vehemently denied the allegations.
Training Despite Suspension
Despite the suspension, Prestianni was seen on the Bernabeu pitch training with his teammates, suggesting he hopes to be eligible for the return leg. Benfica has yet to confirm whether he will be included in the squad for Wednesday’s second leg.
Benfica president Rui Costa spoke out in support of Prestianni, reaffirming the club’s belief in his innocence. “Prestianni is being called a racist, but he is anything but racist. I can guarantee,” Costa said. “What we believe is in the word of Prestianni; more than that, it is knowing the players we have at home.”
Mourinho’s Controversial Comments
Benfica manager José Mourinho also sparked controversy with comments suggesting that Vinicius played a role in the reactions of fans and players, citing his celebrations as a contributing factor. Mourinho even referenced Benfica’s iconic player, Eusebio, who was black, in a bid to highlight the club’s stance on racism.
These remarks were widely condemned, with Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois calling them out. “Mourinho was using Vini’s celebration as an excuse. You can NOT justify racism over a celebration,” Courtois said. “I saw videos of Benfica fans doing awful gestures in the stadium, it was really pathetic. I don’t know if Benfica will punish them or not, but it was really pathetic.”
UEFA Investigation and Potential Consequences
While Prestianni’s status for the second leg remains uncertain, the UEFA investigation into the allegations is unlikely to conclude before the end of the month. If the claims are proven, Prestianni could face a 10-match suspension, similar to the punishment handed to Ondrej Kudela in 2021.
Kudela, the former Slavia Prague defender, was found to have racially abused Rangers’ Glen Kamara during a Europa League match. Kudela’s appeal against his suspension was rejected, setting a precedent for potential sanctions in similar cases.
As the investigation continues, all eyes remain on UEFA’s decision, which will have significant implications not only for Prestianni but also for the wider issue of racism in football.
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