Real Madrids Arbeloa urges UEFA to transform anti-racism battle beyond empty phrases
On Tuesday, Alvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrids coach, pressed UEFA, the European football authority, to elevate their anti-racism initiatives beyond mere catchphrases in light of the reported mistreatment of their prominent player Vinicius Junior.
UEFA has temporarily barred Benficas midfielder Gianluca Prestianni from Wednesdays Champions League play-off return match versus Real Madrid after Vinicius levelled accusations of racial slurs against him during the initial encounter last week.
Should UEFA determine that Prestianni, who engaged in a dispute with the Brazilian while clutching his shirt to his face, indeed insulted Vinicius upon completing their probe into the matter, he faces a ban of at least 10 fixtures.
We possess a vital chance to initiate a significant shift in combating racism, Arbeloa remarked to journalists.
UEFA, which has consistently spearheaded and championed this battle against racism, now holds the power to move past superficial statements, beyond those appealing pre-game displays, and I trust they will grasp this moment.
Vinicius netted an outstanding strike during the opening fixture, securing a 1-0 triumph for Real Madrid, prior to the supposed incident prompting a roughly 10-minute halt in play.
Arbeloa expressed confidence that Vinicius would excel on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu as the 15-time title holders strive to advance to the round of 16.
Vinicius Junior consistently demonstrates immense courage and resilience, Arbeloa stated.
That remains his characteristic reaction, it always has been, and I believe it will continue so.
He embodies a true competitor, and I am certain that tomorrow he will step up determined to compete fiercely, deliver an exceptional performance, and reaffirm his status among the worlds elite talents.
Courtois supports Vinicius
Madrids goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois voiced support for the 25-year-old forward, even as Prestianni and Benfica maintain no racial incident occurred.
Benfica will accept their players account, and we stand fully behind Vini, since Vini has endured countless on-field skirmishes with opponents, numerous altercations with defenders, yet never previously alleged such behaviour, Courtois explained to the press.
With Prestianni obscuring his mouth using his shirt, its impossible to discern precisely what transpired, and ultimately I expect Benfica to protect their own.
We cannot achieve much further, and thus it falls to UEFA and the relevant bodies to render their judgement.
The Belgian custodian voiced disagreement with comments from Benficas coach Jose Mourinho post-match, where the experienced Portuguese tactician criticised Vinicius for a celebration he viewed as improper.
In essence, Mourinho remains true to form. As a manager, you invariably back your team and the narrative from your squad member, Courtois noted.
The sole aspect that troubles me somewhat involves invoking Vinis celebration; I do not believe Vini overstepped in that regard...
We cannot rationalise potential racism through a players festivities.
Vinicius has faced hostility from rival fans repeatedly since joining Real Madrid. Footage captured some Benfica supporters directing ape-like gestures towards the forward last week.
We must strive to act with greater intelligence as a collective, Courtois added.
Benfica has lodged an appeal against Prestiannis temporary exclusion for one game, aiming to field him against Madrid.
Prestianni is being branded as a racist, yet I guarantee he harbours no such prejudices, Benficas president Rui Costa assured reporters on Tuesday.