Silvestre calls for 'massive suspension' over Prestianni-Vinicius incident
Former Man United defender Mikaël Silvestre demands tough action and education programme for players involved in alleged discriminatory incidents.
The fallout from the Benfica-Madrid Champions League clash continues as FIFA Players’ Voice Panel member Mikaël Silvestre weighs in on the Prestianni-Vinicius incident with strong views on punishment and education.
‘Education programme needed’
The former Manchester United and Arsenal defender didn’t mince his words when discussing the alleged verbal incident between Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr with Sky Sports.
“If something really is proven, the player shouldn’t play,” Silvestre stated bluntly, calling for serious consequences for discriminatory behaviour on the pitch. The Frenchman believes any player found guilty should face a “massive suspension” and be required to attend an education programme.
This incident has once again thrust football’s anti-discrimination protocols into the spotlight, with referee François Letexier temporarily halting the match after Vinicius reported the alleged abuse.
Investigation challenges
Silvestre highlighted the practical difficulties facing investigators when players cover their mouths to prevent lip-reading:
- Limited evidence collection timeframe (return leg just seven days later)
- Challenges in proving what was said when mouths are covered
- Reliance on witness testimony rather than video evidence
Despite these obstacles, Silvestre confirmed the FIFA panel is “trying to find ways to sanction these types of behaviours” more effectively.
Mourinho criticism
The former defender also took aim at José Mourinho for his defence of Benfica, where the Portuguese manager suggested the club couldn’t be racist because of its historical connection to Eusébio.
“Players and managers must be role models. You can want to protect your club, but not at any cost. There’s no excuse,” Silvestre argued, taking a firm stance against what he viewed as Mourinho’s misguided defence.
On Vinicius’s goal celebration, which drew criticism from some quarters, Silvestre was equally clear: celebrations are part of football, and the Brazilian shouldn’t be vilified for his emotional expression.
The incident continues to raise important questions about how football handles discrimination claims and the appropriate punishment for offenders.