Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has a few decisions to make as one of his star attacking players Vinicius Junior faces a suspension for a red card during last weekend's intense clash against Valencia.
The Brazilian forward was sent off in the final moments of the 2-1 victory at Mestalla following a heated altercation with Valencia’s goalkeeper, Stole Dimitrievski. It appeared that Vinicius pushed Dimitrievski, with his hands riding up the goalkeeper's back into his neck and head.
The incident, which saw Vinicius visibly frustrated with the referee’s decision, has led to a two-match suspension, according to the RFEF.
If this stands, Real Madrid could miss him in critical upcoming games. The Sporting News breaks down the situation with Real Madrid hoping to lodge an appeal.
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When can Vinicius Junior play his next match for Real Madrid?
Vinicius Jr. has been handed a two-match suspension by the Spanish federation.
While violent conduct comes with a minimum four-match suspension, the RFEF deemed this incident was instead a "mild offense" that falls under article 103.2, rather than the more severe article 103.1 which would have brought with it a longer ban.
His two-game absence will come against Las Palmas and Valladolid in La Liga action. Meanwhile, Vinicius will be allowed to participate in the team's upcoming Supercopa de Espana fixtures.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti was vocal about the decision after the match, calling it harsh. “It should’ve been two yellows — one for each player,” he said. “We’re going to appeal. Vini Jr. is crucial for us, and we hope he can play in the next game.”
Vinicius Jr. was shown a red card after this incident with Valencia's keeper was reviewed by VAR. pic.twitter.com/3VhfOJL4On
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) January 3, 2025
Real Madrid have indeed followed through on that, as the club has lodged an appeal of the two-match ban. Instead, they are hoping for an overturn of the red card which would see Vinicius avoid any suspension at all.
Valencia 1-2 Real Madrid: Bellingham shines amid the red card drama
While the red card stole the spotlight, Jude Bellingham delivered a match-winning performance for Real Madrid.
After missing a penalty earlier in the second half, the Englishman assisted Luka Modric for the equalizer and then scored a dramatic winner in the 95th minute.
Ancelotti praised Bellingham, saying, “The missed penalty motivated him. He worked hard and showed why he’s so important to the team.”
The win propelled Real Madrid to the top of the La Liga table, two points ahead of Atletico Madrid. However, losing Vinicius for key games could pose a significant challenge in maintaining their lead.
