Mourinho Threatens to End Prestianni's Benfica Career if Principles Disrespected

Benfica coach José Mourinho has declared that Gianluca Prestianni's career under his management will conclude if it is proven that the player has disrespected the principles upheld by both him and the Portuguese club. These statements come amidst controversy surrounding the player and Vinicius, with the coach emphasizing the necessity of respecting the legal process before making any final decision regarding Prestianni's future with the team.

During a press conference on the eve of Benfica's Portuguese League clash against Gil Vicente, Mourinho highlighted the importance of adhering to the principle of presumption of innocence, considering it a fundamental human right before final judgments are made. The coach stated, "I am not a lawyer, but I am not ignorant either; isn't the presumption of innocence truly a human right?" He clarified that his perception of the young Argentine would completely change if the accusations against him prove to be true.

Benfica's head coach affirmed that commitment to the system's core values is a non-negotiable condition. Mourinho stated, "If it is proven that my player has not respected these principles, which are my principles and Benfica's principles, then his career with me will end." The coach continued, emphasizing the strictness of his stance by adding, "If he is indeed guilty, I will not look at him the same way again, and for me, he is finished," a clear indication of his rejection of any transgression against the club's traditions.

Mourinho also addressed other details, including the shirt swap between Vinicius and Sydney, describing the action as normal but avoidable given the surrounding context. In this regard, the Portuguese coach denied rumors linking him to a return to Spanish club Real Madrid, affirming his desire to complete his contract with Benfica and his readiness to extend it immediately if the club wishes. He also revealed that he watched the Bernabéu match from the team bus on four screens to view the game from a different perspective.