Benfica winger denies racist claim, says he was unfairly suspended

During the Champions League playoff between Benfica and Real Madrid, Vinicius Jr alleged that Benfica youngster Gianluca Prestianni had called him a “monkey.” The claim was backed by Kylian Mbappé but no evidence was presented, leading to Prestianni’s suspension for the second leg.

Prestianni, who denied the accusation from the outset, said the suspension hurt his family and that cultural differences may have caused a misunderstanding. He insists he never used the slur and urges the club to review the decision.