Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa will not be drawn into criticizing the words of his former manager and mentor Jose Mourinho, after the Benfica manager questioned why Vinicius Junior celebrated as he did in Lisbon last week. The Portuguese manager changed the subject of the conversation when asked about Gianluca Prestianni’s alleged racial abuse of Vinicius.
UEFA announced on Monday that Prestianni had been given a one-match suspension, meaning he will not play at the Bernabeu, as they wait to complete their investigation into the allegations. Benfica have appealed, but are unlikely to receive a decision before the game. Arbeloa did not comment on the ban.
“We didn’t discuss it in the dressing room, and my opinion remains the same: we have a chance to fight racism. UEFA has always championed this fight and now it has a chance to make a big impact.”
‘Vinicius showed great courage and character’
Speaking about Vinicius’ character and his approach to the game, Arbeloa has been delighted with the way he has responded in recent weeks, as well as at Benfica.
“He’s doing very well, he’s very determined. He’s very serious about these types of games. Since I’ve arrived, he’s been working very well, making a real difference. We want to get more out of him, give him opportunities to show his full potential. And… he’s got a lot of character, he’s a leader. We need him to have another good game tomorrow.”
“He always shows a lot of courage and character. Anyone in his position … I don’t know how I would react in his shoes. He has always been brave; it has always been his answer, and it will be, because he is a fighter. And tomorrow he will go out and fight. To show that he is one of the best footballers in the world.
Arbeloa avoids criticizing Mourinho
In the Spanish capital, there is some tension in the air, as Real Madrid are expected to come out on fire. However, Arbeloa was determined to avoid that narrative.
“No; we are completely focused on the game. On playing at a high level, on making the best game. On winning. And that’s where we put all our energy and effort. The rest … is not our concern. It’s not for us to make those decisions, for UEFA.”
Before Arbeloa spoke, Thibaut Courtois said he was disappointed Mourinho spoke of Vinicius’ celebrations when asked about allegations of racial slurs made against him. Arbeloa was asked if he agreed, but refused to criticize Mourinho.
“I still believe what I said last week, here in Lisbon: Vini scored a great, great goal. And nothing he can do, or has done, justifies an act of racism. I said it then and I’ll say it again: that’s the most important thing. Nothing justifies an act of racism.”
Arbeloa: Mourinho’s absence is not important
Mourinho will not speak to the media before the game, with his assistant Joao Tralhao giving a press conference before the game. The Real Madrid manager did not think his suspension would have much of an impact.
“As the team is focused on playing a great game, so am I. It will not be the first time in Mourinho’s life that he is not on the bench, and his teams are always doing well. I expect a good team tomorrow, with a few adjustments after the first leg. I hope for a good game, a big spectacle … and that Madrid will win.”
Regarding the overall atmosphere in the dressing room, Arbeloa was keen to steer the conversation away from the events of the previous week.
“There is a lot of excitement. There is a lot of anticipation for a good night of the Champions League at the Bernabeu, because we know the atmosphere that already exists and will continue to exist. There is a lot at stake. People often say, ‘this is the final,’ and it will be one. Whoever wins will go forward. All our will and our strength.”
