José Mourinho criticized for his reaction to Vinícius | OneFootball

José Mourinho criticized for his reaction to Vinícius | OneFootball

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·18 February 2026

José Mourinho criticized for his reaction to Vinícius

Article image:José Mourinho criticized for his reaction to Vinícius

His comments deemed too hypocritical after the racist incident in Lisbon

Article image:José Mourinho criticized for his reaction to Vinícius

José Mourinho criticized for his reaction to Vinícius


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The Champions League night at Estádio da Luz continues to spark discussion. After the incident involving Vinícius Júnior, José Mourinho’s remarks provoked intense reactions.

At the end of the match, José Mourinho opted to remain neutral, refusing to confirm either side’s account. His comments were deemed insufficient by many observers. Clarence Seedorf criticized Mourinho:

Justifying racist insults is unacceptable. It’s not right, even if Vinícius celebrated.

Experts Jamie Carragher and Micah Richards also condemned the Portuguese manager’s lack of resolve. Carragher pointed out that Vinícius has the right to celebrate his goal however he wants, while Richards called it "hypocrisy" and said he was "disappointed" by Mourinho’s attitude.

The incident reignites the debate about racism in football and the responsibility of influential voices in the sport when faced with such situations.

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