Chelsea F.C. head coach Liam Rosenior has called for lifetime bans on any player, coach, or manager found guilty of racist behaviour, following allegations during a Champions League match this week.

The controversy erupted after Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior claimed he was racially abused by Gianluca Prestianni during Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over S.L. Benfica in Lisbon. UEFA has since opened an investigation into the incident.

Rosenior, speaking on Thursday, said he could not comment on the ongoing probe but was clear about his position. “If any player, any coach, or any manager is found guilty of racism, they shouldn’t be in the game. It’s as simple as that,” he said.

Having faced racial abuse himself, Rosenior emphasised the emotional impact such incidents have on players. “It’s upsetting. Any form of racism in society, not just football, is unacceptable. When you see a player as upset as Vinícius was, there’s usually a reason,” he said.

Benfica manager José Mourinho accused Vinícius of inciting the crowd with his goal celebration, a claim Rosenior rejected. Benfica has defended Prestianni, calling the allegations a “defamation campaign” and releasing footage on social media, arguing that the distance made it impossible for the abuse to be heard.

Rosenior warned that racism in football reflects wider societal issues and stressed the need for accountability. “There needs to be more accountability. People are prejudged based on background, religion, nationality, or skin colour. Everyone should be judged equally on the content of their character,” he said.

The incident has renewed the debate over tackling racism in football, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protections for players and more decisive action to keep the sport inclusive.