Benfica released a statement on Wednesday defending Gianluca Prestianni after Uefa opened a disciplinary investigation into the player. The probe follows a Champions League quarter-final first leg where Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. allegedly suffered racial abuse from the Argentinian winger. Per BBC Sport, the Portuguese club described the accusations as a premeditated defamation campaign aimed at damaging the player's reputation.
Uefa confirmed it appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to evaluate the incident, which reportedly occurred during the match at the Estadio da Luz. According to the club, it will provide all necessary evidence to prove the innocence of the 20-year-old. Benfica officials stated they remain committed to fighting racism but insisted the claims against Prestianni lack any factual basis.
Real Madrid has not issued a formal comment on the ongoing investigation. The European governing body is expected to announce its findings before the return leg in Spain next week. Prestianni remains available for selection pending the outcome of the Uefa inquiry.
