Prestianni’s Bernabeu Debut: The Vini Handshake and Madrid’s Second Leg Saga

Gianluca Prestianni and Vinicius Jr are anticipated to face off once more on Wednesday evening, creating a prominent secondary narrative that accompanies Real Madrid’s Champions League encounter with Benfica.

Prestianni stands accused of racially disparaging the Brazilian soon after Vinicius Jr netted the singular goal of the play-off’s initial leg with a phenomenal strike last Tuesday.

The Argentine unequivocally refutes any culpability and, as per reports from the Portuguese press, assembled the entire Benfica contingent to convey his regret for the generated controversy while simultaneously asserting his blamelessness.

UEFA is scrutinizing the allegations, yet a definitive ruling is exceedingly improbable – especially given the apparent difficulty in substantiating such a charge – prior to Wednesday’s reverse fixture in the Spanish capital.

Herein, we delve into several pivotal discussion points preceding the match:

Is Prestianni set to feature?

Assuming UEFA fails to reach a prompt determination, the matter will hinge on Prestianni’s inclination to participate at the Santiago Bernabeu and if manager Jose Mourinho considers it a judicious decision.

Reports emanating from Portugal indicate Prestianni’s eagerness and Mourinho’s approval for the forward’s involvement. He was absent from the weekend triumph over AVS owing to a domestic ban but commenced the nine fixtures prior to that.

Regarding Vinicius Jr?

There is no indication whatsoever that Vinicius Jr will not also participate. The 25-year-old commenced the game and netted in Madrid’s 2-1 loss at Osasuna over the weekend, delivering a tenacious performance.

He might have been afforded a rest against Benfica had Madrid secured a more definitive first-leg advantage, but with the contest still finely balanced, he will be included in the initial lineup.

Vinícius Jr possesses an emotive temperament, and Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa will be anticipating he can maintain composure and concentrate on guiding his squad into the round of 16.

Is a handshake between them expected?

Precedent exists for players with personal conflicts opting not to exchange handshakes before a match. Wayne Bridge and Luis Suarez notably declined to greet John Terry and Patrice Evra, respectively, due to prior disagreements, and it is plausible we may observe a similar occurrence here.

Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe was notably outspoken following the match in Lisbon, and he might also possess a personal vendetta to address with Prestianni.

Indeed, it is quite conceivable that several of Madrid’s players will choose to disregard Prestianni during the pre-match formalities.

How will the ambiance at the Bernabeu be?

Though not typically renowned as one of Europe’s most intimidating venues, the Bernabeu will transform into a veritable cauldron if Prestianni takes to the field. Anticipate the usual blend of catcalls and jeers each time he gains possession of the ball.

Vinicius Jr has not always enjoyed the most harmonious relationship with the Madrid supporters, but he is likely to be singled out for particular adoration.

Will augmented security be in place?

While no official declaration regarding security has emerged from Madrid, it appears inconceivable that extraordinary measures won’t be implemented. It is highly probable that additional security personnel will be positioned around the pitch to ensure no incident transpires.

And concerning Jose Mourinho?

Mourinho’s anticipated reappearance at a club he guided to the 2012 Liga title has been overshadowed by the ongoing dispute. Mourinho himself has drawn criticism for his post-match comments, wherein he implied Vinicius Jr had excessively celebrated his goal and asserted that Benfica could not be deemed a racist club due to its legendary former player, Eusebio.

Mourinho was issued a red card in the initial leg, hence he will be unable to occupy the dugout. He has previously observed matches from the team hotel when suspended, yet reports this morning suggest he will be present at the stadium and will also conduct the pre-match press conference tomorrow evening.