Chelsea F.C. manager, Liam Rosenior, has called for a lifetime ban on any player, coach, or manager found guilty of racism in football, following allegations of racial abuse during a recent Champions League encounter.

The controversy arose after Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior claimed he was racially abused by S.L. Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during Madrid’s 1-0 victory in Lisbon on Tuesday. UEFA has since launched an investigation into the matter.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Rosenior refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation but made his position unequivocally clear.

“If any player, coach, or manager is proven guilty of racism, they should be barred from the sport. It’s as simple as that,” he said.

Rosenior further condemned racism, noting its broader impact beyond the pitch.

“It’s upsetting. Any form of racism in society, not just football, is unacceptable. When you see a player like Vinícius so visibly affected, it’s normally for a very good reason,” he added.

Benfica’s coach, José Mourinho, countered the allegations, suggesting that Vinícius’ goal celebration incited the crowd. Rosenior, however, defended the Brazilian winger and reflected on his personal experiences.

“I have been racially abused myself. Being judged for something you should be proud of is the worst feeling imaginable,” Rosenior said.

Benfica, meanwhile, described the incident as a defamation campaign, posting footage on social media and arguing that the distance made it impossible for Real Madrid players to hear the alleged abuse.

Rosenior concluded by stressing that football mirrors societal issues and called for greater accountability in addressing discrimination.

“People are often prejudged based on their background, religion, nationality, or skin colour. Everyone should be judged equally, based on the content of their character,” he said.