Benfica Winger Denies Racist Allegation, Claims Unjust Suspension

During the Champions League playoff between Benfica and Real Madrid, Vinicius Jr. alleged that Benfica youngster Gianluca Prestianni directed a racist slur at him, claiming he was called a "monkey." Prestianni was immediately suspended for the second leg, despite no public evidence supporting the claim.

In an interview over the international break, Prestianni stated he never used the alleged insult, described the suspension as unjust, and expressed the emotional toll of being accused. He noted cultural differences in insults and emphasized that his reputation as a player should speak for him.