Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has strongly criticised Jose Mourinho over his post-match comments following alleged racial abuse directed at Vinicius Junior during Real Madrid’s Champions League win against Benfica.
Vinicius scored the decisive goal in Madrid’s 1–0 victory but was booked for his celebration. The match was briefly halted after he reported alleged racist abuse from Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, who has denied the accusation. UEFA has since opened an investigation into the incident.
Mourinho, who was sent off late in the game for disputing a refereeing decision, described Vinicius’ celebration as “disrespectful” and cited Benfica legend Eusebio as evidence that the club is not racist.
Speaking ahead of Bayern’s Bundesliga clash with Eintracht Frankfurt, Kompany labelled Mourinho’s remarks a “huge mistake” and “unacceptable,” arguing that they risked undermining Vinicius’ response to the alleged abuse.
“Do you know what Black players had to go through in the 1960s? Was he there to travel with Eusebio to every away game?” Kompany asked, questioning the relevance of invoking past icons to dismiss present-day allegations.
Former South African striker Benni McCarthy also described Mourinho’s comments as “very wrong,” while suggesting emotions may have influenced the Portuguese coach’s reaction.
“The situation, he could have handled it better or chosen his words better, but emotions got the better of him,” McCarthy told BBC World Service presenter Isaac Fanin.
“I know the statement he made was very wrong. But we’re all human, we all make mistakes,” he added, expressing hope that Mourinho would acknowledge the misstep.
Kompany, reflecting on racial abuse he experienced during his playing career, insisted the focus should remain on the seriousness of the allegations rather than on Vinicius’ celebration.
He drew comparisons with Mourinho’s own touchline celebrations and confrontations in high-profile matches, arguing that emotional reactions in football should not distract from addressing racism.
“I don’t need to judge him as a person,” Kompany said. “But he has made a mistake.”
