José Mourinho: ‘It has not been simple’ to manage repercussions from Real Madrid match
José Mourinho has acknowledged the challenges of dealing with the repercussions from “every aspect” of Benfica’s loss to Real Madrid.
Accusations of a racist slur aimed at Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior by Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni, along with significant criticism directed at Mourinho’s comments after the match on Tuesday, have heavily impacted the Portuguese coach.
The allegations of racist abuse involving Vinícius Júnior and the wave of criticism towards Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni and Mourinho for his post-match statements have significantly affected the Portuguese coach.
“The match was genuinely demanding, in every regard,” Benfica coach Mourinho stated.
“Up until the 50th minute, it was a contest of utmost intensity, both physically and tactically, necessitating the focus required to compete at that level. However, I must also admit that from the 50th minute onward — and this will not conclude our discussion — it has been challenging to handle emotionally everything that has transpired and continues to unfold.”
Tuesday’s Champions League playoff opener in Lisbon was halted for 10 minutes after Vinícius claimed that Prestianni had directed a racist slur at the Brazil international following his goal, which was the only one of the match.
UEFA has launched an investigation into these allegations, which Prestianni has refuted.
Mourinho, who received a red card during that match, faced criticism from television analysts after he seemed to imply in a post-match interview that Vinícius had incited racist abuse with his goal celebration.
The former Chelsea manager spoke with both players on the pitch during the 10-minute delay after the referee activated UEFA’s anti-racism protocol and stated after the match that he “didn’t know” who was being truthful.
– Ex-PL referee Mark Clattenburg apologises for Vinícius Júnior comments
– Seedorf on Mourinho’s Vinícius reaction: Mistake to justify racial abuse
Benfica, for their part, are supporting Prestianni and believe the 20-year-old is facing a “smear campaign.”
Mourinho, who will be without Prestianni for Saturday’s league match against AFS due to the Argentinian serving a one-match suspension, hopes his team can focus on securing three points.
“There’s a match tomorrow, an important match for our aspirations and goals,” he remarked. “Winning is essential. We must concentrate and perform at our highest level.”
