Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa criticized Jose Mourinho’s handling of the racist abuse directed at Vinicius Junior during the recent Benfica match, though the Spaniard attempted to remain diplomatic given his close relationship with the Special One.
Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany had previously rebuked Mourinho for criticizing Vinicius’s celebration, deeming the Portuguese manager’s failure to defend the Brazilian against racism an unforgivable mistake.
At the pre-match press conference before the Osasuna game, Arbeloa was asked about his opinion on Mourinho’s comments. He responded, “I don’t like to comment on other people’s opinions, whether Kompany’s, Mourinho’s, or anyone else’s. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and I’m expressing mine.”
He added, “Vinicius scored a fantastic goal and celebrated in a way that many players have done in the past.”
He added, “All the players celebrated their goals regardless of their skin color. You can never blame the victim; it’s completely unacceptable.”
He concluded, “You can’t tell Vinicius that his celebration was wrong. Racist incidents should never happen.”
Arbeloa confirmed that Vinicius will be ready for the Osasuna match and hopes that the recent controversy won’t affect him on the pitch, despite the considerable anger he has displayed in recent days.
