Real Madrid are facing a strong battle to have Vinicius Jr. available for El Clasico, with the club aware that the Brazilian could miss the showdown against Barcelona following his red card against Villarreal.
According to COPE, Los Blancos intend to appeal the punishment and will do everything possible to reduce the suspension, even though they recognise that overturning the consequences of the dismissal will be difficult.
Vinicius was sent off during Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Villarreal after pulling defender Nathan Saliba’s hair.
His angry reaction towards the referee has added another element to the disciplinary case, with the potential suspension ranging from two to four matches.
Until the ruling and any appeal are resolved, his availability for the meeting with Barcelona remains uncertain.
Real Madrid appeal Vinicius red card as Barcelona await verdict
Real Madrid will appeal against Vinicius’ red card. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
For now, Real Madrid understand the seriousness of Vinicius’ situation but will fight to have the punishment reduced.
On that note, the club’s appeal could prove crucial in determining whether the forward remains available for upcoming fixtures, including the highly anticipated clash with Barcelona.
Notably, Vinicius continues to be a major threat because of his pace, dribbling and ability to attack space behind defensive lines, even though he has not enjoyed a strong start to the 2026/27 season.
Those qualities are particularly relevant against Barcelona, whose aggressive approach under Hansi Flick can leave room for opponents to exploit when possession is lost.
Without the Brazilian, Jose Mourinho would have to reconsider how Real Madrid threaten Barcelona in transition.
Vinicius is a player capable of influencing the El Clasico. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Indeed, Real Madrid could still pose significant problems through their other attacking options, but losing a player capable of stretching the defence and creating danger in one-on-one situations would change the tactical picture.
Barcelona must be prepared
Barcelona must nevertheless prepare for both possibilities.
If Vinicius’ suspension stands, Flick’s side could avoid facing one of Madrid’s most direct attacking weapons, but if the appeal reduces the ban sufficiently, the Brazilian could still feature.
For now, Real Madrid are fighting to keep that possibility alive, while Barcelona will wait for the disciplinary decision before drawing conclusions about their rivals’ team selection.