Vinicius Junior has lashed out at referees after being suspended for four matches, arguing that attacking players like himself, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, should be better protected on the pitch.
The Real Madrid winger’s anger is the result of the Spanish Football Federation’s disciplinary committee’s decision to ban him after he was sent off in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Villarreal. Vinicius was sent off for pulling the hair of defender Nathan Saliba, and the committee added two games for his protests towards the referee.
Speaking about the punishment, Vinicius said he believes it is unfair treatment by match officials, saying that players who are often subjected to physical challenges shouldn’t be the ones to get disciplinary action.
“I feel like defenders can always kick me, yet I am the one who gets booked,” Vinicius said.
Vinicius Questions Four-Match Ban After Villarreal Red Card
Vinicius was especially displeased with the timing of the punishment, telling reporters that he found out about the suspension when he got to the stadium before Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Roma on Wednesday. As a result, Vinicius is set to miss the first El Clasico against Barcelona.
Vinicius said, “I think the punishment came at a bad time. They had the whole day to announce the decision, but I found out about it when I arrived at the stadium.”
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The Brazilian also said that the rule for the punishment was not clearly communicated to players. He said he never did anything violent to another player and was frustrated at the speed at which referees are issuing him cards.
Since the Villarreal incident, Vinicius has apologized to Real Madrid’s fans and teammates. But his latest remarks indicate that the controversy over his treatment by officials is far from over.
Why Vinicius Wants Lamine Yamal and Julian Alvarez Protected
The Real Madrid striker also extended his argument beyond himself, pointing to two other top attacking talents that he feels should be better protected.
“I think we need to protect players who can make a difference like me, Lamine Yamal and Julian Alvarez,” Vinicius said.
The suspension has serious implications for Real Madrid, as Vinicius will miss LaLiga games against Sevilla, Barcelona, Racing Santander and Valencia.
His absence will be a big blow for manager Jose Mourinho as Madrid look to a pivotal period in their domestic campaign on October 25 against Barcelona in El Clasico.
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