Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany criticized Jose Mourinho after Real Madrid’s Champions League match against Benfica.
The controversy arose as a result of allegations of racist abuse directed against Vinicius Jr.
Kompany argued that Mourinho should have shown stronger leadership instead of criticizing the character of Vinicius Jr. to question.
“For me, what happened after the match is even worse,” Kompany said during a pre-match press conference.
“Jose Mourinho essentially attacked Vinicius Jr.’s character by referring to his celebrations to undermine him. That was a major mistake in leadership.”
The incident started when Vinicius accused Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni of making racist comments after scoring a goal in the second half.
Kylian Mbappe backed Vinicius’ claim, leading to an 11-minute stoppage while FIFA’s anti-racism protocols were put in place.
Eusebio’s defense: Kompany challenges Mourinho’s logic
In his post-match comments, Mourinho dismissed the idea that Benfica could be racist, citing the legacy of their legendary player Eusebio. Kompany, a strong believer in equality, strongly disagreed with this defense.
“Mourinho brought up Eusebio’s name and said Benfica cannot be racist because their greatest player was Eusebio,” Kompany said. “But does he know what black players went through in the 1960s? Was he at Eusebio’s every away match to see it?”
Kompany said Vinicius Jr.’s emotional reaction was sincere and could not be fake.
He also noted that Mbappe, usually very diplomatic, was clear about what he heard. Video clips appeared to show some fans making monkey gestures in the stadium.
Kompany calls for support for Vinicius Jr
Despite his criticism, Kompany said he still respects Mourinho but believes the coach made a serious mistake in this case.
“I’ve met a lot of people who worked with Mourinho and I’ve never heard anyone talk bad about him. His players respect him,” Kompany said. “I know he is passionate about his club and a good man through and through. But I know what I heard, and this time he was wrong.”
Mourinho previously claimed that Vinicius Jr. provokes opponents with his celebrations and that incidents take place wherever he plays. Kompany’s response defended Vinicius and called on the football community to support victims of abuse rather than question them.
The rivalry between Real Madrid and Benfica is intensifying
The two clubs have now played each other twice this year after Benfica defeated Real Madrid in the final group match of the Champions League to secure a play-off place.
The second leg is set to be 1-0 to Real as they take Benfica back to the Bernabeu where the pre-match atmosphere will be high.
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