Kompany Criticises Mourinhos Huge Mistake in Vinicius Racism Dispute
Vincent Kompany has condemned Jose Mourinhos approach to the racism issue surrounding Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, describing the Benfica managers post match remarks after Wednesdays Champions League game as a major error.
The Brazilian star Vinicius claimed that Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni racially insulted him in Reals 1 0 victory in Lisbon on Tuesday, informing the referee that the Argentine had referred to him as a monkey in a heated exchange.
Post match, Mourinho criticised Vinicius for provoking Benfica players and supporters with his goal celebration in the opening leg of the knockout stage playoff. UEFA has announced an inquiry into claims of discriminatory conduct.
Bayern Munich manager Kompany, drawing from his own encounters with racism during his playing days, expressed that the most concerning aspect was the off field response.
The organisations leader, Jose Mourinho, essentially undermines Vinicius Juniors character by focusing on the celebration, aiming to undermine his current efforts, Kompany stated to journalists on Friday.
In my view on leadership, this represents a significant error, one that we must reject.
Kompany argued that discussions about Vinicius celebration ought not to overshadow the forwards authentic immediate response to Prestiannis words, which displayed clear emotional pain.
When observing the incident, Vinicius Juniors response appears genuine and unfeigned. Its visible as an emotional outburst. He gains nothing by approaching the referee and bearing this burden, Kompany explained.
Vinicius had no motive to report it, yet he did, likely believing it was the proper action at that time.
Challenging to Verify
That said, Kompany noted that confirming the racist abuse claims against Prestianni would prove tough without the players own confession.
Prestianni conceals his words behind his jersey, while the accuser complains and the player denies it. Without him stepping up, its a tough situation, the Belgian remarked.
Even with the rebuke, Kompany expressed optimism that the matter could foster responsibility and development. Should Prestianni have used such offensive language, he suggested allowing room for regret and for authorities to factor in any admission of fault.
If Benfica player indeed uttered something so dreadful, Id welcome a scenario for an apology, acknowledging the wrongdoing.
Such admissions influence the punishment, whether option A or B. Admitting imperfection should provide a chance for that.
Returning to Mourinho, Kompany mentioned he had never encountered negative comments about the Portuguese and refused to base his opinion on this single event at the Estadio da Luz.
Hes erred. I hope such incidents do not recur, enabling us all to progress and improve.