Rosenior Slams Racism as UEFA investigates alleged abuse of Vinícius Júnior during Real Madrid’s win over Benfica

Chelsea F.C. head coach Liam Rosenior said on Thursday that any player, coach or manager found guilty of racist behaviour “shouldn’t be in the game”, as UEFA opened an investigation into alleged abuse of Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match in Lisbon.

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UEFA is probing claims that Vinícius Júnior was racially abused by Gianluca Prestianni during Real Madrid CF’s 1-0 win over S.L. Benfica on Tuesday.

Speaking as reported by BBC Sport, Liam Rosenior said he could not comment directly on the case while investigations continue but made his position unequivocal.

“If any player, any coach, or any manager is found guilty of racism, they shouldn’t be in the game. It’s as simple as that,” Liam Rosenior said.

Liam Rosenior described racism as unacceptable in any setting. Liam Rosenior added that visible distress from a player often indicates a serious issue.

“It’s upsetting. Any form of racism in society, not just football, is unacceptable. When you see a player as upset as Vinícius was, normally they’re upset for a reason,” Liam Rosenior said.

José Mourinho, manager of S.L. Benfica, accused Vinícius Júnior of inciting the crowd with his goal celebration.

Liam Rosenior defended the Brazilian winger and referenced his own experiences of racial abuse.

“I have been racially abused myself,” Liam Rosenior said. “When you are judged for something you should be proud of, it is the worst feeling you can ever imagine.”

S.L. Benfica defended Gianluca Prestianni and described the allegation as a defamation campaign.

The club posted footage of the incident on social media and argued that the distance involved made it impossible for Real Madrid players to hear what was alleged.

Liam Rosenior said racism in football reflects broader divisions in society and called for stronger accountability across the sport.

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“There needs to be more accountability. There’s a lot of division, and people are prejudged based on their background, religion, nationality, or the colour of their skin. Everybody should be judged equally based on the content of their character,” Liam Rosenior said.