Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has called on referees to provide greater protection for attacking players, naming himself, Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal and Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez among those who need better treatment on the pitch.
The Brazilian expressed frustration over what he considers unfair officiating, claiming that defenders can repeatedly foul him without punishment while he ends up receiving bookings.
According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who shared the comments on X on Thursday, Vinícius said: “I feel like defenders can always kick me, yet I am the one who gets booked.”
The Real Madrid forward argued that match officials should pay greater attention to protecting players capable of influencing games through their individual quality.
He added: “I think we need to protect players who can make a difference like me, Lamine Yamal and Julián Álvarez.”
Vinícius also questioned the severity of certain disciplinary decisions, citing a four-match suspension for pulling an opponent’s hair.
He said: “I do not remember any player being banned for four games for pulling the opponent’s hair.”
The Brazilian suggested that incidents involving him often attract criticism from rival clubs and the media, with similar situations sometimes receiving different treatment.
Reflecting on his career at Real Madrid, Vinícius reminded his critics of the progress he has made since joining the Spanish giants as an 18-year-old.
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He said: “Remember, I arrived at 18 years old and many people laughed at me. They said I can’t score, then I had more than 100 goals for Madrid.”
The forward pointed to his goalscoring record and achievements at the club as evidence of his development, ending his remarks with a defiant message to those who continue to doubt him.
He said: “Vini always comes back, remember.”
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