Vinicius says referees leave Real Madrid attackers being targeted and unprotected

Vinicius seeks more protection

Vinicius Junior said he is unhappy with how referees treat him and wants greater protection for players who bring a different style to the game. He named Lamine Yamal of Barcelona and Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid as others deserving of it.

Vinicius said he had faced 500 fouls that led to five red cards. He argued that defenders can foul him throughout a match, while attacking players are the ones who receive yellow cards. He also referred to the incident that led to his four-match suspension, saying he tried to move an opponent and got caught in the player’s hair.

Suspension draws coach’s criticism

Madrid coach Jose Mourinho questioned when the suspension was announced. He said Vinicius learned of the four-match ban two hours before kickoff, ahead of an important match for Spanish football.

The suspension rules Vinicius out of Sunday’s home match against Sevilla and the following week’s away game against Barcelona, known as el Clasico. He will also miss trips to Racing Santander and Valencia.

Form and team relationship

Vinicius acknowledged he is in a slump and has not scored for Madrid since August, but said he expects his form and goals to return. He said he remains focused on helping the team.

He said he was annoyed when Mourinho substituted him on Wednesday, but added that the coach was right because the team improved. Vinicius described their relationship as strong and said the victory could help shift the season’s direction.

Madrid had rallied from 3-1 down to win. Vinicius said younger players stepped up and that the result would give the team a boost.