Gary Lineker has weighed in on the debate over Jose Mourinho's criticism of Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior by slamming the Benfica manager. The legendary former Barcelona striker accused Mourinho of gaslighting the Brazilian amid an ongoing racism row.
Vinicius scored in Madrid's 1-0 win over Benfica but was then involved in an incident that led to UEFA's racism protocol being invoked. Argentine midfielder Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth before directing an insult at Vini.
The Brazilian ran over to the referee and informed him of what was said. The game was paused for 10 minutes before resuming and Prestianni was allowed to play on.
Lineker hits out at Mourinho over Vinicius racism incident
The ugly scenes occurred after Vinicius celebrated his goal in the corner with a dance. Mourinho was asked about the alleged racism after the gam,e and he suggested that the Madrid star provoked Benfica's players and supporters due to his celebrations.
Lineker hit out at Mourinho and wasn't impressed by the Portuguese coach's response. He said on The Rest is Football podcast:
"The post-match tribalism after the Benfica game was depressing. Jose Mourinho had the GALL to blame Vinicius for celebrating his goal, basically saying he had it coming. I'm sorry, but that is gaslighting."
Mourinho has spent most his managerial career provoking the opposition with his celebrations. He infamously poked former Barca managerTito Vilanova's eye during El Clasico.
Lineker added:
"Players celebrate goals. Should they think in the moment, if I celebrate, will I provoke racial abuse? Of course not. It's ludicrous and wrong, to put the blame on Vinicius."
Mourinho used Eusebio, Benfica's "greatest ever player" as example of why Benfica can't be a racist club. This bemused Lineker:
"Mourinho then went on to say Benfica's greatest ever player was black, and it felt like one of those "Oh, one of my mates is black" moments. This wasn't a moment for tribalism, this wasn't about Benfica, this is a moment where all of football should've come together."
Vinicius angry with Mourinho
UEFA are investigating the racist abuse Vinicius allegedly received from Prestianni. The Brazilian is reportedly "very angry" with Mourinho due to his post-match comments.
The Brazilian feels the former Madrid manager basically 'justified racism' with his comments and suggestion he incited the incident. Prestianni denies any wrongdoing and his club are backing him.
Mourinho chose not to take sides following the incident and the game on Tuesday night. But his comments regarding Vinicius' celebrations have caused mass backlash.