Real Madrid have a selection dilemma ahead of the marquee clash against Barcelona, with Jose Mourinho likely having to name an XI without Vinicius Junior.
Los Blancos are preparing to fight for a reduced suspension for the Brazilian superstar, although they are reconciled to the fact that his availability for the Clasico is extremely unlikely.
According to Cadena COPE, Madrid expect the Brazilian to receive a three-match ban following his dismissal against Villarreal.
The club hope to reduce the punishment to two matches through an appeal, but even that outcome would leave him unavailable for the Clasico.
Madrid facing difficult battle over Vinicius suspension
Vinicius was sent off during Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Villarreal after pulling defender Nathan Saliba’s hair during an attacking move.
The incident was reviewed by VAR, resulting in a straight red card and the disallowing of a potential Madrid goal.
Vinicius lashed out at the referee after being shown a red card against Villarreal. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The referee’s report also described Vinicius’ reaction to the dismissal, raising concerns that his protests could increase his suspension.
Madrid face Sevilla before travelling to Barcelona on 25 October, meaning a suspension of two or more domestic matches would rule Vinicius out of both fixtures.
Although the final punishment remains subject to the disciplinary process, the club accept that overturning the situation completely will be extremely difficult.
Why Madrid still have reason to appeal
Reducing the punishment would remain worthwhile even if it does not save Vinicius’ Clasico participation.
A shorter suspension would allow Mourinho to recover the Brazilian sooner for subsequent league fixtures, limiting the longer-term damage to Madrid’s campaign.
Even if the red card is warranted, Madrid are well within their rights to argue the length of the punishment handed to him.
Regardless of the outcome, making an appeal is definitely worth the attempt if it helps reduce the number of games Vinicius could miss.
Mourinho must prepare for Barcelona without Vinicius
Madrid cannot allow uncertainty over the appeal to delay their tactical preparations.
Yan Diomande could start on the left against Barcelona in the absence of Vinicius. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Yan Diomande’s match-winning performance against Villarreal makes him an obvious candidate for a starting role, while Arda Guler could benefit from additional creative freedom.
Crucially, Mourinho must decide whether replacing Vinicius requires a direct positional change or the option of using Mbappe on the left with a more conventional No. 9.
Madrid have a huge task on their hands to stop the seemingly unstoppable Barça team, and Mourinho will have to get every decision right.
Los Blancos have the players to get the better of the Catalan giants, and it remains to be seen how they cope without Vinicius in the coming weeks.