Jose Mourinho will maintain a media blackout ahead of Benfica's crucial Champions League return leg against Real Madrid, following intense criticism of his remarks concerning the alleged racist abuse suffered by Vinicius Jr. The Portuguese manager's controversial post-match comments have ignited a firestorm across the football world, leading to his decision to exercise his right to avoid press conferences.
UEFA Rules Allow Mourinho to Bypass Media Obligations
As Mourinho is suspended from the touchline for the second leg due to receiving two yellow cards in Benfica's 1-0 first-leg defeat in Lisbon, UEFA regulations permit him to skip mandatory pre-match and post-match press briefings. Consequently, assistant coach Joao Tralhao will represent Benfica in all media engagements, shielding Mourinho from further scrutiny.
Prestianni Suspended Amid Racism Investigation
Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been provisionally suspended by UEFA while authorities investigate claims that he racially abused Vinicius during the heated first-leg encounter. The 20-year-old was captured on camera holding his shirt over his mouth during a confrontation with Madrid players after Vinicius scored in the second half.
Vinicius immediately reported the incident to the match official, alleging he was subjected to discriminatory slurs. Mourinho's dismissal stemmed from protesting to the fourth official that Vinicius should have been shown a red card, rather than just a yellow for his goal celebration directed at Benfica supporters.
Football Community Condemns Mourinho's Comments
In his post-match analysis, Mourinho suggested that "something happens, always" in matches involving Vinicius and criticised the Brazilian's celebratory antics prior to the alleged abuse. These remarks drew sharp rebukes from prominent figures including Vincent Kompany, the former Manchester City captain now managing Bayern Munich, who publicly denounced Mourinho's perspective.
Anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out accused Mourinho of "gaslighting" the victim, amplifying the backlash against the experienced manager. The controversy has overshadowed the sporting narrative of Mourinho facing his former club Real Madrid at the Bernabeu, where he will be banned from the technical area.
UEFA Protocol on Suspended Coaches
UEFA's official guidelines clarify the situation: "Each club must hold a pre-match press conference the day before the match. Each press conference must be attended by the head coach of the team and at least one player. If the head coach is suspended for the match, clubs have the option of making the assistant coach available for the pre-match press conference instead." This provision allows Mourinho to legally avoid the media spotlight as the racism allegations continue to unfold.
