The Argentine was cheered by Benfica fans during the match against Moreirense after receiving a six-game suspension for homophobic insults directed at Vinícius Júnior.
Mourinho, standing alongside Prestianni during a training session.
Mourinho, Prestianni’s coach at Benfica, was asked about the incident in the post-match press conference. “If I had been in the stands, I would have applauded too. He’s had a good season, he’s done a fantastic job,” the Portuguese manager stated.
The former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss praised his player’s on-field contributions this season: “He has improved enormously. Tactically, he’s strong, he knows how to position himself defensively, and he understands the game.” Regarding the UEFA sanction, Mourinho added: “I heard so many things when we played against Real Madrid that now I’m waiting to read and hear the comments from those who spoke so much at the time. I’m curious to hear their opinions, so I prefer not to comment.”
Prestianni covering his mouth during Benfica’s match against Real Madrid.
Prestianni’s six-match ban has already been reduced to five after his provisional suspension during the Champions League return leg against Real Madrid. Additionally, two of those remaining five games are suspended for a conditional period of two years. It is worth noting that this punishment only applies to UEFA competitions, unless FIFA also adopts it, in which case he could miss some World Cup matches.