Gianluca Prestianni has publicly denied racially abusing Vinicius Junior, claiming the Brazilian misunderstood his words during their controversial Champions League playoff encounter.
Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has issued a firm social media denial after being accused of racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.
The 20-year-old Argentine claimed his opponent “misinterpreted” their exchange during Tuesday’s heated clash, which was suspended for ten minutes after the referee activated anti-racism protocols.
Despite the allegations and condemnation from Madrid players, Prestianni insisted he has never been racist toward anyone.
The fallout has intensified with Kylian Mbappe claiming Prestianni directed a slur at Vinicius five times, stating the youngster “should never play in the Champions League again.”
In his rebuttal, Prestianni also alleged he was threatened by Real Madrid players during the confrontation.
He wrote, “I want to clarify that at no point did I direct racist insults at Vinícius Jr, who unfortunately misunderstood what he thought he heard.”