Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Real Madrid secured an important 1-0 victory over Villarreal in La Liga, but it came in controversial circumstances following Vinicius Junior’s redcard.
Los Blancos could be without the Brazilian attacker for their upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona after he was sent off against the Yellow Submarine.
The winger is said to be facing a suspension of at least two matches, although a longer ban is also possible.
According to Mundo Deportivo, referee Isidro Diaz de Mera’s official report has left Vinicius facing disciplinary action for two separate incidents: pulling an opponent’s hair and his angry reaction following the dismissal.
Vinicius faces multiple disciplinary charges
The incident occurred in the 71st minute when Vinicius pulled Villarreal defender Nathan Saliba’s hair while the ball was in play.
The referee initially allowed play to continue before being advised by VAR to review a possible act of violent conduct.
Vinicius retaliated with an angry reaction at the referee after being sent off. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Following the review, Vinicius received a straight red card. The referee’s report states that the Brazilian pulled an opponent’s hair while the ball was in play, but neither player was challenging for possession.
That distinction could prove important when Spain’s Disciplinary Committee meets on Wednesday.
Depending on how the incident is classified under Article 130, Vinicius could receive a suspension of one to three matches.
Angry reaction could increase suspension
The situation is further complicated by Vinicius’ conduct after receiving the red card.
The referee reported that the winger continued protesting loudly and approached him aggressively, requiring teammates to restrain him.
While the official record does not include any specific insulting words, his reaction could result in an additional punishment.
Jose Mourinho, Manager of Real Madrid
Mourinho faces a run of games where he may not be able to count on Vinicius Jr. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
If the committee considers it unsporting behaviour, excessive protesting or disrespect towards the referee, a suspension of two, three or four matches could be on the cards.
The two-match scenario is already enough to rule Vinicius out of the 25 October El Clasico, but the punishment has not yet been confirmed.
Mourinho faces an important attacking decision
Vinicius’ potential absence would create an interesting selection challenge for Jose Mourinho.
Despite his inconsistent start to the season, the Brazilian remains one of Madrid’s most dangerous players when attacking open spaces.
He did not start against Villarreal last night, presumably after a long journey, and in his absence, Yan Diomande started on the left and scored Madrid’s only goal.
Without Vinicius, Mourinho may have to use the same attacking structure and put more responsibility on Diomande and Guler.
The coming disciplinary action could influence Mourinho’s preparation for El Clasico, and it remains to be seen how many matches Vinicius will miss for Madrid.
Rodrygo of Real Madrid
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Rodrygo, Real Madrid player
Rodrygo is recovering from an ACL injury. (Picture courtesy: Real Madrid official website)
Rodrygo of Real Madrid
Rodrygo’s long-term future remains unclear. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)