Jose Mourinho has come under intense criticism for allegedly ‘gaslighting’ Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr after the Benfica manager suggested his players had been ‘incited’ during a high-profile Champions League clash.
The incident unfolded after Benfica suffered a 1-0 defeat to Real Madrid on Tuesday night. Mourinho appeared to place responsibility on Vinicius Jr for provoking both his players and fans, following the Brazilian’s second-half goal and animated celebration.
Moments after the goal, Vinicius Jr reported an alleged racist remark by Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni, claiming he was called a ‘monkey’ while Prestianni’s mouth was obscured by his shirt.
In an interview with Amazon Prime, Mourinho downplayed the significance of the racist allegation, focusing instead on the manner of Vinicius Jr’s celebration. He said, “It should be the crazy moment of the game, an amazing goal in a good game. These talents can do beautiful things, but unfortunately he was not just happy to score that astonishing goal.”
When asked if Vinicius had ‘incited’ Benfica players and fans, Mourinho replied, “Yeah, I believe so. The words they exchange, Prestianni with Vinicius, I want to be independent. I don’t comment about it.”
During the extended pause in play, Mourinho reportedly spoke directly with Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe. He told Vinicius, “When you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back.” Mourinho also defended Benfica against allegations of racism, stating, “The biggest person in the history of this club was black. This club, the last thing it is, is racist.”
Anti-racism charity Kick It Out condemned Mourinho’s remarks, arguing that focusing on Vinicius Jr’s celebration rather than addressing his report is a form of gaslighting.
The organization posted on X: “When anyone reports discrimination in football, the first priority is that they are listened to and feel supported. Focusing on Vinicius Jr’s goal celebration or the history of the club, instead of acknowledging the report, is a form of gaslighting.”
Kick It Out added that such statements undermine victims and send the wrong message globally. They emphasized the responsibility of football leaders to model respect, inclusion, and accountability.
UEFA is expected to investigate the incident. Meanwhile, Benfica issued a statement backing their player Gianluca Prestianni, affirming the club’s commitment to equality, respect, and inclusion.
The statement read, “Sport Lisboa e Benfica fully supports and believes in the version presented by the player Gianluca Prestianni. His conduct has always been guided by respect for opponents, institutions, and the principles that define Benfica’s identity.”
Benfica also expressed regret over the alleged defamation of Prestianni and reiterated its dedication to defending the values embodied by club legend Eusébio.
The controversy highlights ongoing challenges in football around racism, player safety, and accountability. As UEFA prepares to review the situation, the responses from Mourinho, Kick It Out, and Benfica signal that leadership, transparency, and sensitivity will be under intense scrutiny.
