🗣️ Prestianni speaks out after racism accusation, says it was misunderstood | OneFootball

Gianluca Prestianni used a story on his Instagram profile to deny having made racist insults towards Vinicius Junior. 

According to the Argentine player from Benfica, the Real Madrid number 7 "misinterpreted" words he thought he heard. 

"I want to clarify that at no time did I direct racist insults at the player Vinicius Junior, who unfortunately misinterpreted what he thought he heard."

"I have never been racist to anyone and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players."

Prestianni used a photo of himself with the Brazilian from the previous duel between Benfica and Real - which resulted in Benfica qualifying for the playoffs - in the post that will be deleted in 24 hours unless he saves it.

Uefa has not yet commented on the case.

Mbappé came to Vini Jr.'s defense, claiming that he heard Prestianni call the Brazilian Mono (monkey in Spanish) five times.

Vini Jr. spoke out about the episode criticizing, for example, the protocol adopted by Uefa.

Mourinho, the Benfica coach, avoided commenting on the alleged offenses, focusing on criticizing the striker's celebration after deciding the game. 

Real and Benfica will play again next Wednesday (25).

The Spanish team will have the advantage of a draw in Madrid.

Meanwhile, Benfica will need to win by two goals to advance in regular time. 

Whoever advances to the round of 16 will face Sporting or Manchester City. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

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