Mourinho criticised after suggesting Vinicius Jr provokes racist abuse
Jose Mourinho has come under intense scrutiny for comments suggesting Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr is partly responsible for the racist abuse he receives.
The Portuguese coach made the controversial remarks following a chaotic encounter in Lisbon involving the Spanish champions.
Mourinho appeared to imply the Brazilian international “provokes” hostility, a stance that has drawn sharp condemnation from observers.
Critics have labelled the viewpoint archaic, arguing that a player’s on-field behaviour never justifies discriminatory abuse.
Mbappe offers strong support
Kylian Mbappe has publicly backed his team-mate, firmly rejecting the notion that the winger is to blame for the treatment he endures.
The French World Cup winner took to social media to encourage his strike partner to continue expressing himself freely.
“Dance Vini Junior and please never stop. They will never tell us what we have to do or not.”
Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid forward
Mbappe also stated to journalists in the mixed zone that he heard Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni direct racist slurs at the former Flamengo star.
The France captain claimed several Benfica players also witnessed the alleged verbal assault during the match.
Prestianni denies allegations
The incident reportedly occurred during a heated exchange, with Prestianni firmly denying the accusations levelled against him.
The Argentine winger took to Instagram to refute claims he used racist language towards the Real Madrid number seven.
“I was never racist with anyone and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players.”
Gianluca Prestianni, Benfica winger
UEFA investigation pending
European football’s governing body is now expected to launch a full investigation into the events in the Portuguese capital.
While Mourinho stated in his Amazon Prime interview that he would remain “independent” regarding the specific investigation, his broader comments on provocation have overshadowed the process.
Vinicius Jr has frequently been the target of racist abuse throughout his time in La Liga and European competition.