Tag: Real Madrid

Chelsea boss Rosenior backs Vinicius after Benfica racism allegation and warns of heavy ban

Liam Rosenior
February 2026

Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior publicly supported Vinicius Jr following alleged racial abuse in Real Madrid’s Champions League play-off against Benfica, saying anyone found guilty of racism should not be in football as an investigation continues into what was said. The controversy has intensified amid public reactions from high-profile figures and Benfica’s defence of their player. Reports say Prestianni could face a minimum 10-game ban if found guilty, while he has denied the allegation in a social media statement.

Carlo Ancelotti plans Brazil extension through 2030 after taking job in 2025

Carlo Ancelotti
February 2026

Carlo Ancelotti says he intends to sign a new Brazil contract that would keep him in charge beyond the 2026 World Cup and potentially through to 2030, as he settles into international management after leaving Real Madrid in 2025. Ancelotti discussed his enjoyment of the Brazil role in quotes carried by AS ahead of a Universo Valdano episode, with reports suggesting a verbal agreement is already in place. Brazil head toward 2026 as contenders but not unanimous favourites, with expectations that Ancelotti’s tenure could target ending their wait for another World Cup.

Clattenburg apologises for “clumsy” Vinicius commentary after Benfica racism allegation

Mark Clattenburg
February 2026

Mark Clattenburg apologised for “clumsy” analysis after suggesting Vinicius should have simply returned to position following his goal, during a match halted for 10 minutes under UEFA protocol after alleged racist abuse involving Prestianni. After Vinicius scored, an exchange with Prestianni at halfway led Vinicius to report the incident to referee Letexier and the match was paused. Clattenburg’s on-air remarks drew backlash, including criticism from Kick It Out’s Troy Townsend.

Vinicius accuses Prestianni of racial slur as Benfica clash halted under FIFA protocol

Vinicius Junior
February 2026

Vinicius Junior issued a statement alleging Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni directed a racial slur at him. The match was stopped for around 10 minutes after Vinicius reported the alleged abuse to referee Francois Letexier and FIFA’s racism protocol was activated. After scoring the winner and being booked for his celebration, Vinicius argued with Prestianni, then reported the alleged slur. Players briefly left the pitch during the protocol pause before play resumed. Vinicius later criticised the process as ineffective, while the CBF publicly backed him and reiterated that racism is a crime.

Mourinho denies Benfica racism claim after Vinicius incident triggers FIFA protocol in Lisbon

Jose Mourinho
February 2026

Jose Mourinho said Benfica “cannot be a racist club” after Vinicius Junior alleged abuse involving a Benfica player, prompting activation of FIFA’s racism protocol and a 10-minute stoppage. Mourinho also suggested Vinicius escalated the situation after scoring. Following Vinicius’ goal and celebration, an exchange with Prestianni led to protests and the protocol being initiated. Mourinho was later sent off for dissent, then defended Benfica post-match and argued incidents follow Vinicius across stadiums.

Mbappe fitness unclear ahead of Benfica Champions League playoff

Kylian Mbappe
February 2026

Real Madrid released an injury note on Mbappe before the Champions League playoff trip to Benfica, after he was an unused substitute versus Real Sociedad. The provided text does not include the medical conclusion, so his match availability is unclear here. The tie renews a recent Lisbon meeting that Benfica won 4-2, with Mbappe scoring both Real Madrid goals, including a late Trubin header that flipped the standings. Madrid play in Lisbon Tuesday and host the return leg next week, making fitness decisions urgent.

Tuchel Warns Bellingham Fitness Is a “Race Against Time” for World Cup Build-Up

Thomas Tuchel
February 2026

Tuchel says Bellingham is pushing to be fit for March, but England may be forced to decide late given reports his hamstring issue could keep him out for longer than first expected. Tuchel says Real Madrid are more cautious on timelines, England are in contact, and he is optimistic but not sure. The implication is he might have to select without full proof of fitness.

Tottenham Eye Free-Agency Move for Antonio Rudiger as Romero Madrid Links Grow

Antonio Rudiger
February 2026

Spurs are reportedly preparing a contingency plan that includes targeting Rudiger on a free if his Real Madrid deal is not renewed, with talk of Romero being courted by Real Madrid and other Spanish giants. Reports frame Rudiger as a short-term, high-level replacement option if Romero leaves. Real Madrid are said to be weighing Rudiger’s recent injury record and would only offer a one-year extension, pushing him toward a longer deal elsewhere.

Real Madrid Sweat on Mbappé After Second Straight Missed Training Session

Kylian Mbappé
February 2026

Mbappé missed group training for a second day with recurring left-knee discomfort, creating doubt over his availability for Real Sociedad and concern ahead of Benfica. He worked in the gym away from the squad and did not join on-pitch tactical work. No official medical report was cited, but the continued absence close to matchday signals Real are managing the issue cautiously.

Flamengo President Plays Down Vinícius Return Talk

Vinícius Júnior
February 2026

Flamengo’s president outlined a cautious stance on re-signing Vinícius as speculation builds around his Madrid future. The forward’s deal is described as nearing its final year, with past reports of friction and delayed renewal talks. The piece says Vinícius is more open to renewing after Alonso’s departure, while Arbeloa publicly distanced himself from contract matters. Flamengo’s sporting director joked about a free return if the contract runs down, but the president position is framed as non-committal for now.

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