Real Madrid faces a sanction that threatens to leave Brazilian Vinicius Júnior out of the next Clásico. According to referee Díaz de Mera's report, the player was sent off with a direct red card after pulling Saliba's hair during the match against Villarreal. The document indicates that the ball was not in dispute when the action occurred, which justifies the severity of the expulsion.
The minutes also indicate that, after being sent off, Vinicius aggressively approached the referee, protesting with shouts and without showing any concrete expression. To contain the situation, several Real Madrid teammates had to restrain him. This additional conduct could influence the final decision on the duration of the sanction.
With the current wording, the minimum sanction foreseen would be two games. If this measure is maintained, the Brazilian forward will not be able to participate in the next Clásico against Barcelona, which leaves the team with a significant lack in its attack. Real Madrid will have to adjust their lineup and strategy to compensate for the absence of Vinicius.
The minutes also mention that the referee showed a yellow card to coaches José Mourinho and Chendo, and sent off Nuno Santos, Mourinho's assistant, as well as Villarreal delegate Francisco Sebastián Nadal Martorell, for their behavior during the match. These decisions reflect the tension that was experienced in the match and the need to maintain order on the field of play.
The Madrid club and the federation are reviewing the case. If the sanction is confirmed in two games, Real Madrid will have to look for alternatives for the attack in the next Clásico, while Vinicius will recover from the suspension and return to the squad. The final outcome of the disciplinary process will determine whether the Brazilian will be able to return before the calendar deadline.