Mourinho said in his post-match interview that he had heard different things from Vinicius and Pretiani regarding the incident.
The Portuguese, who managed Real Madrid for 178 games between 2010 and 2013, pointed to their legendary striker Eusebio as evidence that Benfica is not a racist club.
“The club clearly and unequivocally reaffirms its historical and unwavering commitment to upholding the values of equality, respect and inclusion, which are consistent with the core values of its founding and of which Eusebio is its greatest symbol,” Benfica said.
Mourinho and Benfica’s comments were criticized by many, including anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out.
Kick It Out chairman Sanjay Bhandari said both the club and manager had “failed”.
“It’s natural to want to believe in players, but the reality is they haven’t been told that,” Bhandari told BBC Sport.
“There were only two people involved in that conversation and only two people who could hear it.
“The response from a club of Benfica’s fantastic stature would be to say we will cooperate with the investigation.
“It’s very typical after these types of discrimination incidents. Discrimination and gaslighting are two different things.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he was “shocked and saddened” by the incident and praised Letexier for activating anti-racism protocols.
“There is absolutely no room for racism in our sport and society. All relevant stakeholders must take action and hold those responsible accountable,” he added.
“I will always repeat over and over again: I am against racism. I am against discrimination in any form!”
