Benfica manager Jose Mourinho has warned Gianluca Prestianni that his future at the club could be in jeopardy if he is found guilty of racially abusing Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.
The controversy stems from Benfica’s Champions League knockout clash against Real Madrid in Lisbon on February 17, where Vinicius alleged that Prestianni directed racist remarks at him during the encounter.
Prestianni, 20, has firmly denied the accusation. However, UEFA imposed a provisional suspension that ruled him out of the return leg in Spain while investigations continue into the incident.
Speaking on Sunday, Mourinho adopted a firm stance on the matter, stressing that Benfica maintains zero tolerance for any form of discrimination. The Portuguese tactician made it clear that any player found to have violated those standards would face serious consequences under his leadership.
The former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss had earlier drawn criticism after suggesting that Vinicius may have provoked sections of the crowd with his goal celebration during the match. His comments generated debate across European football circles.
Mourinho has now sought to underline his position more forcefully, insisting that respect and professionalism remain non-negotiable within the Benfica dressing room. He emphasized that if any of his players are proven to have acted outside those values, their time at the club under his management would effectively be finished.
UEFA’s investigation into the alleged incident is ongoing, and further disciplinary action could follow depending on the outcome.
The case adds another chapter to the wider conversation around racism in European football, an issue that has repeatedly involved Vinicius in recent seasons and continues to draw strong reactions from clubs, governing bodies, and players across the game.
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