Benfica’s manager has come under heavy criticism after appearing to imply that Vinicius Junior was in some way responsible for the ugly scenes in Lisbon after he did not show “respect” at the celebrations.
Mourinho’s comments were offensive and shameful (Image: UEFA via Getty Images)
First, some of Jose Mourinho’s less heinous crimes. Rank hypocrisy. One of the most disrespectful managers in football history, who told his players they should show respect when celebrating goals. Mourinho is an expert in disrespect.
But that particular irony is only part of what should go down as Mourinho’s darkest hour. And his worst sin was spreading an insidious narrative that Vinicius Jr. somehow provoked racist abuse himself.
Mourinho told a Spanish interviewer in a series of interviews that tarnished his legacy: “Vinicius shouldn’t be playing against 60,000 people in stadiums. In how many stadiums has this happened to him? How many times? How many times?”
read more: Thierry Henry’s emotional speech as Benfica react to Vinicius Junior’s racist commentsread more: UEFA launches investigation into Vinicius Jr. racism allegations, releases statement
Vinicius was not challenging anyone. He was celebrating a great goal. Mourinho echoed his sentiments in an interview in French and English. There is no doubt that Mourinho is a skilled linguist…he can speak some languages terribly.
Mourinho will be penalized for giving him a red card in the closing stages of the match between Benfica and Real Madrid in Lisbon. But it’s not enough. But the real punishment should not be meted out by the authorities. It should be from everyone who loves the game.
Mourinho should be known not only for the trophies he won, but also for these kinds of comments and these kinds of actions. And as for his mention of Eusebio, one can only despair.
“When he[Vinicius]was discussing racism, I told him that the greatest person in the history of this club is a black man,” Mourinho said. what? what? This is a rehash of someone’s solemn old line about how having a black friend doesn’t make you a racist. It’s really aggressive.
Kylian Mbappe says he heard Gianluca Prestiani use racist slurs against Vinicius Junior five times
Vinicius Junior was criticized by Jose Mourinho for celebrating by the corner flag after scoring against Benfica (Image: Pedro Loureiro/Getty Images)
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