Real Madrid manager urges “zero tolerance” for racism
Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa believes it is important to take action against racist abuse, after the club’s Champions League game against Benfica was interrupted on Tuesday.
Vinicius scored just four minutes into the second half to break the deadlock, but only minutes later he was apparently abused by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni and the referee paused the game.
“Ask the Benfica player what he said to Vini,” said Arbeloa after the game. “Everyone in the world of football deserves to hear that answer, and that’s all I can say.
“Zero tolerance for racism must be absolute for us, and we cannot allow these things to happen on a football pitch in 2026. I believe what Vini told me about what he said to him. I don’t think he would make something like that up, and I will never, ever doubt Vini’s words.”
Vinicius has regularly faced racial abuse from some fans in Spain, but this would be the first time the player has received such abuse from a fellow footballer.
“The sad thing is that this isn’t the first time,” said Arbeloa. “He’s not only a spectacular player, but also a great person and a great guy loved by everyone.
“As soon as you meet him, you quickly realize what a good person he is and how many times he’s had to fight against situations like this. He’s always been a fighter, he always will be, and we’ll always be by his side.”
Madrid take a 1-0 advantage into the second leg at the Bernabeu but Arbeloa does not expect his team to relax.
“We can’t make the mistake of writing off a Mourinho-coached team with a 1-0 lead,” said Madrid’s coach. “I don’t know if anyone could do that. I certainly won’t.
“They’re already preparing for that match as soon as they step into the locker room, and it’s not like it’s a result to be complacent about, nor is Benfica a team that will let us take our foot off the gas if we want to beat them.
“The Bernabeu will be waiting for Benfica, and our fans will be on our side and will once again be a crucial factor. If we want to eliminate Benfica, we need 90 minutes of very good football, like we played today.”
