Red card, suspension and a conspiracy - what's up with Vini Jr?
· Sports · BBC Sport
Vinicius Jr. was sent off in Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Villarreal after pulling Nathan Saliba's hair during a goal-scoring move, resulting in a straight red card. The dismissal means he is suspended for four matches, ruling him out of El Clasico against Barcelona a week on Sunday. After coming on at half-time, Vinicius kissed the club badge following a goal that was later overturned by VAR. Jose Mourinho had controversially started him on the bench, his first omission since April, citing the player's visible distress over his form. Mourinho later defended Vinicius, stating he deserves better treatment after making Madrid happy on many occasions.
Why it matters
Vinicius Jr.'s absence for El Clasico removes Real Madrid's key attacking threat in their biggest fixture, while his on-field behaviour and supporter relations remain under intense scrutiny.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
Join us on Telegram
Breaking news the moment it lands. At 10,000 members we ship the Android app.