During Bayern Munich’s 2-1 Champions League win over Real Madrid, there was an unseen moment of class between two of the protagonists.
Just before the second half kicked off Bayern coach Vincent Kompany grabbed Vinicius Jr at the touchline and gave him a handshake before an embrace and quick chat.
Explaining the unseen moment later on, Kompany said: “This is the first time I’ve met him.
“I think Vini should stay the way he is. And he has my full support, whether he’s an opposing player or not.
“I think sometimes you need players who are different. We have that too, and we enjoy their success.
“Franck Ribery was one of those for Bayern Munich, and you’re entitled to your opinion. But you can’t cross a line, and that’s why I have a lot of respect for Vini.”
It’s little wonder that Vinicius wanted to meet Kompany, given his earlier comments in the previous round.
The Brazilian and teammate Kylian Mbappe accused Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni of racist abuse, and Kompany spoke about the moment emotionally and passionately.
Kompany earned particular plaudits for criticising Jose Mourinho, who suggested Vinicius was at fault for provoking the crowd.
What did Kompany say about Mourinho?
Kompany said at the time: “In terms of leadership, that’s a huge mistake. That’s something we shouldn’t accept.
“On top of that, José mentions Eusébio’s name and claims there can’t be any racism at Benfica because the best player in the club’s history was Eusébio.
“But does he know what black players had to endure in the 1960s? Mourinho didn’t experience that.
“I’ve met 100 people who have worked with José Mourinho. I’ve never heard anyone say anything bad about him. All the players who have played under him love him.
“I understand his personality and I understand that he fights for a team and the club.
“I know he is a good person and I don’t want to judge him personally, but I know what I’ve heard.
“I understand what he did, but it was a mistake. Hopefully, it won’t happen again and we can move forward.
“My dream is that at the end of this situation there will be a space where someone can say: ‘I’m sorry, I apologise.’”
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