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Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa has challenged UEFA to make their anti-racism stance more than just a “slogan,” following the alleged abuse of star winger Vinícius Júnior.
The incident occurred during last week’s Champions League play-off first leg against Benfica, where Vinícius accused midfielder Gianluca Prestianni of using racial slurs.
As a result, UEFA has provisionally suspended Prestianni for Wednesday’s decisive second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, pending a full investigation that could lead to a minimum 10-match ban.
The tension surrounding the match has been heightened by the defensive stance of Benfica and their manager, José Mourinho.
While Benfica President Rui Costa insists Prestianni is not a racist, Mourinho criticised Vinícius for a “disrespectful” goal celebration during the first leg.
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois quickly dismissed this narrative, stating that a celebration can never justify racism and noting that video footage from the stands showed fans making monkey gestures at the Brazilian attacker.
Arbeloa remains confident that Vinícius will not be deterred by the hostility.
Describing the winger as a “fighter” with immense character, the coach expects him to thrive under the pressure of the home crowd.
Real Madrid hold a narrow 1-0 lead going into the second leg, thanks to a brilliant goal by Vinícius in the first encounter—a match that was notably halted for 10 minutes following the alleged verbal abuse.
As the record 15-time champions prepare to secure their spot in the last 16, the focus remains split between the pitch and the disciplinary office.
Benfica have appealed Prestianni’s provisional ban, bringing the player to Madrid in hopes of a last-minute reversal.
Meanwhile, Mourinho will be forced to watch from the stands after being sent off in the first leg, leaving his assistants to lead the team in a match that has become a flashpoint for European football’s struggle with discrimination.
