Vinicius Jr’s Appeal Fails
Real Madrid have lost their bid to overturn Vinícius Jr’s four-match La Liga suspension. The Spanish Football Federation’s Appeals Committee rejected the club’s attempt, so the Brazilian will miss the season’s first Clásico.
What Led To The Ban
The punishment follows the 1-0 win at Villarreal on October 10. Vinícius was sent off for grabbing Nathan Saliba’s hair and strongly protesting against the referee, while leaving the pitch.
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Why It’s Four Matches
Two Matches for Violent Conduct
During Real Madrid’s match against Villarreal, Vinícius pulled the hair of defender Nathan Saliba while sprinting down the pitch, causing a potential Real Madrid goal to be VAR-reviewed and ruled out. Referee Isidro Díaz de Mera subsequently issued a straight red card.
Two Matches for Aggressive Protests
Following the straight red, Vinícius raised his voice, shouted at the match official, and had to be physically held back by his teammates while leaving the pitch. The referee recorded his aggressive manner in the official match report, leading to the additional two-game sanction for dissent.
Games Vinicius Jr Will Miss If The Ban Stands
La Liga: The ban applies exclusively to domestic La Liga fixtures, ruling Vinícius out of matches against Sevilla, FC Barcelona (El Clásico, on October 25), Racing Santander, and Valencia.
Champions League Eligibility: Because the sanction is enforced by the Spanish Football Federation for domestic competitions, he remains available for UEFA Champions League fixtures.
Expected Return
He is expected to be back against Celta Vigo at the Bernabeu in Madrid on November 23 after the international break.
What’s Next
Madrid are expected to take the case to the Administrative Court of Sport (TAD). Even so, they can’t count on the suspension being overturned before the Clásico.
Vini’s Response
Vinícius issued a public apology to his teammates and fans on social media following the decision, though he described the penalty as harsh.
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