Vinicius Jr. has addressed the controversy surrounding his four-match La Liga suspension, his difficult performance against AS Roma and the criticism he has faced from Real Madrid fans.
The Brazilian was under scrutiny before Madrid’s 4-3 Champions League victory over Roma after learning that he would miss four league matches.
His evening then took another turn when he was substituted, before he spoke openly about his frustration and the reaction of fans at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Despite his disappointment, Vinicius insisted he would recover from the setback, while also questioning the disciplinary decision and calling for greater protection for attacking players.
Vinicius questions timing of Real Madrid suspension
Vinicius expressed his frustration at learning about the four-match ban shortly before the Roma match, arguing that the new disciplinary rules had not been properly explained to players.
“I think it was bad timing. They’ve had the whole day to announce the ban, and just as I arrived at the stadium, I was told I’d be out for four league matches.
“I don’t understand why. The truth is, the rule is new; they’ve never explained this to us.
“Someone from La Liga or some other organisation – I don’t know which one – always comes along to explain the new rules to us, but this, specifically this, we’ve been told nothing about.
Vinicius struggled to make a difference vs Roma. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“I’ve never committed an act of violence against another player. I’ve always kept a cool head; I get hit quite a lot and, in the end, the card always goes to me.”
The suspension will keep the forward out of Madrid’s next four La Liga fixtures, making his availability a significant issue for the team, especially for El Clasico.
Vinicius admits frustration after Roma performance
The Brazilian also accepted that his performance against Roma fell below his own expectations.
He was visibly unhappy after being substituted, but acknowledged the impact made by the players who replaced him.
“It’s normal; I was annoyed after being substituted because I always want to perform well and help the team. The substitutions changed the team.
“Endrick changed the dynamic and was the best on the pitch. And Carlos came on for just a few minutes but scored. I’m annoyed with myself for not being at my best.
“In the end, Vini always comes back, and I have no doubt that I’ll be back too.”
Endrick helped transform the contest, while Carlos Espi scored after coming off the bench as Madrid recovered from a 3-1 deficit to win 4-3.
Vinicius responds to Bernabeu boos and referee criticism
Vinicius addressed his four-match ban. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Vinicius also discussed the criticism he has received from Real Madrid supporters, admitting that the boos affect him while recognising the fans’ right to express their opinions.
“The boos certainly don’t help me, but people pay for their tickets. We play better when we have the fans behind us. Jude plays better, Mbappé plays better, I play better.
“I think it’s easier to boo me because I’ve been here longer and I’m one of the captains. I’ll be back.
“When I arrived as a youngster, many laughed at me, but in the end I’ve scored over 100 goals for Real Madrid.”
He then turned his attention to opposition supporters and refereeing decisions, arguing that players who attract attention because of their performances should receive greater protection.
“The fans have to boo me because I’m there to score goals against their teams, but I don’t understand the referees.
“I’ve seen a statistic that says I’ve been fouled 500 times, resulting in five red cards and I don’t know how many yellows – and the yellows are always for Vini.
“I don’t get it. We have to defend players who stand out, like Lamine at Barcelona or Julián at Atletico,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo