Vinícius swap leaves player out of squad. José Mourinho drops Benfica defender after shirt exchange with Brazilian star

Portuguese giants Benfica are embroiled in internal controversy following their Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid.

Details: Young defender Lopes Cabral, who only joined the club in January at the personal request of José Mourinho, has suddenly vanished from the squad. According to Mundo Deportivo, this exclusion wasn’t due to sporting reasons, but rather the player’s actions after the final whistle at the Santiago Bernabéu.

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The 'Special One' himself addressed the incident in trademark style, emphasizing that while Cabral’s gesture wasn’t a crime, it should have been avoided. Although the coach officially cites the player’s poor physical condition as the reason for his absence, sources in Portugal are convinced this is a disciplinary move or an attempt to shield the squad from a toxic atmosphere.

The situation is further complicated by a racism scandal that marred the first leg, where Benfica’s Prestianni allegedly insulted the Brazilian. In such a heated environment, fans interpreted Cabral’s gesture as a “betrayal” or naiveté, unleashing a wave of online abuse against the defender.

Reminder: Bernardo Silva is set to leave Manchester City as a free agent. Benfica are among the potential destinations for the Portuguese star.