Mark Clattenburg Slammed For Vinicius Jr Comments

Despite a controlled performance from Real Madrid, as they lead Benfica 1-0 following the Champions League knockout play-off first leg in Lisbon on Tuesday night, the environment was anything but. In all, there were 12 minutes of stoppage time at the end of a match in which Jose Mourinho was sent to the stands for a second yellow card after coming out of his technical area and home supporters threw objects onto the pitch.

The main talking point, however – a sinister turn of events that will no doubt be discussed long after the final whistle – was the one that saw Vinicius Junior score the only goal of the match, celebrate in front of opposition fans, and then be sent into a fit of rage by comments made by Argentinian opponent Gianluca Prestianni, before both sets of players and coaching staff locked horns as scuffles spilled onto the pitch.

Shortly after the incident, which saw Mourinho try to cool Vinicius Jr down and seemingly extend his support, Mark Clattenburg – acting as Amazon Prime’s referee expert – alleged the winger might have been subject to racial abuse, but he has since quickly garnered backlash for the comments that followed.

Speaking on Amazon Prime Video’s coverage, former referee Clattenburg explained: “Words have been said between the players. Vinicius is not happy with what has been said. The referee is following the protocol for a racial comment that has been said. Once Vinicius has approached the referee the referee now has to follow the protocol and the rules that UEFA have set out when this happens.”

He continued: “As a referee, I have had this situation before when players have reported a racial comment on the field of play. All he can do is make the report. Afterwards, then UEFA will look into this. As a referee it is very difficult in this situation.” Shortly after the match got back underway as the Estadio da Luz crowd booed the winger’s every touch, he concluded:

It is likely his final remarks that have led to a target being placed on his back as viewers call for him to be taken off-air for future Champions League fixtures. “Clattenburg blaming Vinicius for ‘creating’ this situation is utterly disgraceful by the way,” one X user wrote, as a second added: “Mark Clattenburg is a disgrace!”

A third user remarked: Mark Clattenburg… how have you just said that?! Vinicius Junior hasn’t ‘made it difficult’ He can celebrate in front of the crowd as much as he likes. That does not, under any circumstances, legitimise alleged racist abuse from Prestianni.” Elsewhere, a fourth concluded: “Mark Clattenburg, get a clue. Saying Vinicius Junior has ‘made it difficult’. He can celebrate scoring in front of the crowd, there is NOTHING wrong with that. This shouldn’t have to be said.”

More to follow…