Vinícius Júnior Cries Foul: Real Madrid Star Claims Referees Target Him

Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has acknowledged a dip in his performance but expressed unwavering confidence in his ability to return to peak form soon. The Brazilian international voiced his dissatisfaction with the treatment he receives from referees, advocating for greater protection for talented players like himself, Lamine Yamal, and Julián Álvarez.

Vinícius spoke out following Real Madrid's dramatic 4-3 Champions League victory over Roma on Wednesday. While admitting to a current slump, he stated, “I have no doubt” he will soon rediscover his best form. This statement came just hours after he received a four-game suspension in La Liga for pulling an opponent's hair and subsequently protesting the referee's decision.

“I don’t recall any other player receiving a four-match suspension,” Vinícius remarked. “I tried to move the player in front of me out of the way and I ended up getting caught in his hair. That was it – a red card – which is why I was so surprised. I didn’t say a single offensive word to the referee that would warrant a four-match ban. But when it comes to Vini, it’s all too easy.”

He continued, “The opposing team will always say it’s justified and the press will say the same. I understand that. I’m here to keep evolving and improving, because I know where I’ve come from and what I’m capable of achieving.”

Vinícius also addressed the crowd reaction: “It’s understandable for the opposing fans to jeer me, because my job is to score goals against their team, but I don’t get the referees. I’ve seen the stats: I’ve been on the receiving end of 500 fouls, yet that has only resulted in five red cards. In the end, the yellow cards always seem to go to Vini, to the attacking players. We need to protect the players who bring something different to the game, like Lamine at Barcelona or Julian at Atleti. Defenders are allowed to foul me the entire match but in the end it’s me who gets the card.”

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho criticized 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 questioned. “We were on the bus about to arrive at the stadium when we found out … they’ve started doing things without any shame.”

Vinícius, who has not scored for Madrid since August, was substituted in the 59th minute of the match before the team mounted their comeback. “I’m working to get back to my best as soon as possible,” he said. “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. That’s why I signed a six-year contract extension. The good run of form will return and the goals will come back, too. I’m certain of that. I have no doubt. I’m here to help the team.”

The 26-year-old has scored only two goals for club and country this season. He downplayed his frustration after being substituted, stating, “It’s natural for me to get upset when I’m substituted because I always want to play every single match. I’m well aware of my current form and how I’m playing. I’m here to help the team and sometimes you have to come off so that other players can get on and change the dynamic.” He added, “Mourinho and I have a great relationship. He’s always straight with me. Of course I got a little annoyed when I came off today, but that’s normal. In the end he was right, the team improved and that’s what matters most.”

Endrick, who replaced Vinícius, scored the equalizer in the 85th minute, and Antonio Rüdiger secured the win in the 90th minute. “This is Real Madrid. We needed a match like this to shift the dynamic and turn the season around a bit,” Vinícius commented. “It’s going to help and give us a boost because the younger players stepped up. They played a great game. Endrick played an incredible match. He scored and really helped us out. That’s why he was named man of the match.”

Due to his suspension, Vinícius will miss crucial upcoming matches, including the home game against Sevilla, the “el Clásico” against Barcelona, and away fixtures at Racing Santander and Valencia.