Vinícius Júnior has publicly criticised the way referees have treated him, arguing that attacking players such as himself, Lamine Yamal and Julián Álvarez deserve greater protection. The Brazilian forward made the comments after Real Madrid’s dramatic 4‑3 comeback victory over AS Roma in the Champions League, a match that came just hours after he was handed a four‑game ban in La Liga for a red card incident involving an opponent’s hair.
The suspension followed a controversial sending‑off in a Spanish league fixture where Vinícius was accused of pulling an opponent’s hair and protesting the referee. He said he had never seen another player receive a four‑match ban and that he had only been involved in a physical altercation that led to a single red card. “I didn’t say any offensive words to the referee that would warrant a four‑match ban,” he explained. “When it comes to me, it’s all too easy. The opposing team will always say it’s justified, and the press will say the same.” He added that he has been the target of 500 fouls but has only received five red cards, with yellow cards often landing on him and other attacking players. “We need to protect the players who bring something different to the game,” he said, citing Lamine Yamal at Barcelona and Julián Álvarez at Atlético Madrid.
Real Madrid manager José Mourinho also expressed frustration over the timing of the suspension announcement. “Do you think it’s normal for a player from a Spanish team, preparing for an important match that’s also crucial for Spanish football, to find out about his four‑match suspension just two hours before kickoff?” Mourinho asked. He added that the club had been on the bus to the stadium when the news arrived, calling the decision “shameless.” The timing of the ban meant Vinícius missed the start of the Champions League match, but he returned to the pitch in the 59th minute, only to be substituted again after Madrid rallied from a 3‑1 deficit. Endrick then scored an equaliser in the 85th minute, and Antonio Rüdiger secured the win with a late goal.
Despite the setback, Vinícius remains confident that his form will return. He said he has never scored for Madrid since August but believes he can regain his best level soon. “I know I’m not at my peak right now, but I’ve been through worse, and even when people have doubted me, I’ve always stood up for this club,” he said. He also highlighted his recent six‑year contract extension, stating that he is committed to helping the team. “The good run of form will return, and the goals will come back, too. I’m certain of that,” he added.
Vinícius’s four‑game ban will keep him out of several key fixtures, including the upcoming El Clásico against Barcelona on 25 October. The Real Madrid camp will now focus on preparing for the next matches while the forward works to regain his scoring touch and address the concerns he raised about refereeing decisions.