“I have never been racist, and I never will be,” says Gianluca Prestianni
Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has criticised Uefa after being suspended for one match following allegations of racist abuse made by Vinicius Junior.
The Argentine was banned for the second leg of their Champions League playoff tie against Real Madrid, which Madrid won 2-1 to advance 3-1 on aggregate.
Speaking on the issue for the first time since the 17 February incident, Prestianni denied the accusations and expressed frustration at Uefa’s decision.
“I have never been racist, and I never will be,” Prestianni said. “What hurt me the most was to be accused of something I never did. It was something I didn’t say, and they punished me without proof.”
Prestianni added that missing the return leg was difficult, saying: “I was very hurt that I couldn’t play the return leg. But it’s over.”
Uefa opened an investigation into the incident in February and that process is still ongoing. Benfica have backed the 20-year-old, condemning what they described as a “smear campaign” against him. Prestianni also thanked the club and his teammates for their support, as well as coach Jose Mourinho.
“I’m very grateful to my club, which believed in me and supported me in every way,” said Prestianni. “Both the club and my teammates that showed me that [support] behind closed doors. Mourinho is a great person. I spoke with him and my teammates to clarify things.
“I’m calm that those who know me know what type of person I am and that’s enough for me.”
Prestianni is now focused on finishing the season strongly and earning a place in the Argentina squad for the upcoming World Cup.
“I dream of being at the World Cup,” said Prestianni. “That’s what I’m working for every day, to have that opportunity. It’s a pleasure to be with this squad fighting for a spot. I think I’m doing things really well at Benfica.”
