In a morning marked by tension and anticipation, Rui Costa, the president of Benfica, addressed journalists at Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon, ahead of the team’s trip to Madrid. His speech did not shy away from the controversy surrounding player Prestianni, amidst an atmosphere filled with criticism and accusations.
“First of all, it’s unnecessary to talk about the high difficulty of this game in overturning a negative result at the Bernabéu. But we will approach this match with the utmost ambition. We have this case of Prestianni that we cannot use. We filed an appeal because we believe that nothing has been proven,” said Rui Costa, establishing a firm stance on the player’s situation. He emphasized that Prestianni’s absence is unjustifiable, mentioning that they expected UEFA to also reconsider the situation of Valverde, who, according to him, committed a clear act of aggression and should have faced more severe consequences.
When questioned about the veracity of the allegations against Vinícius Junior, Rui Costa was direct: “I was not on the field to know what was said. What I can say is that I believe in my player. Prestianni is being crucified as a racist person, and I can guarantee that he is not.” He explained that the decision to speak out after a week is due to an ongoing process, emphasizing that the player’s provisional suspension does not reflect the reality of the situation.
The president of Benfica also addressed the team’s aspirations in the Champions League, acknowledging the difficult start to the campaign but reaffirming the club’s determination. “We started very poorly in this competition and when everyone wrote us off, we had a brilliant finish. Now we are in a difficult situation, but our aspirations remain unwavering and we will do everything to continue in the competition.”
Regarding international criticism, Rui Costa did not hesitate to defend Benfica’s history, which has always stood out as an example of inclusion. “What are the criticisms based on? A game situation. Benfica has historically been an example of inclusion and not of racism. We have an African player as our greatest emblem. Benfica will never feel tarnished regarding the issue of racism because it is a social example.”
On the issue of the conversation with Prestianni, Rui Costa reaffirmed his confidence in the player. “It is clear that we all talked. Prestianni is not racist because if he were, he wouldn’t play for Benfica. Although it is a game situation, it is also a human situation, but that does not in any way tarnish Benfica as an anti-racist club. Benfica would never have racist players in its squad.”
Regarding the events in the tunnel, Rui Costa called for a more critical analysis of the situation. “You have the footage. Instead of saying that Rui Costa was throwing punches, you could just look at the footage that does not lie. I only went to the tunnel to calm the situation considering how the game ended.”
Finally, the president of Benfica defended the club’s image, which he believes has been unjustly attacked. “How does one change that? Did Benfica conduct any racist campaign? Quite the opposite. Benfica does not feel offended and has never had cases of racism. Its greatest banner is an African player.”
Rui Costa’s statements reflect an unwavering defense of the club and its player at a time when Benfica faces challenges both on and off the field. What is at stake is more than just a match; it is the reputation of one of Portugal’s largest clubs and its fight against discriminatory attitudes.
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