Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has rallied behind Vinicius Jr, who received a red card during their 2-1 La Liga victory over Valencia on Friday. The 24-year-old forward was dismissed for striking Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in an altercation, but the club believes the punishment was excessive.
Speaking after the match, Ancelotti said, “It was not a red card; it was a yellow at most. We are optimistic about the appeal and hopeful he won’t face suspension.” Real Madrid have filed an official protest with league authorities, seeking to overturn the decision and ensure Vinicius remains available for future fixtures.
The dismissal has sparked debate, with some viewing the action as a momentary lapse in judgment and others questioning whether the referee overreacted. Madrid’s appeal aims to clarify the situation and protect their player from further consequences.
Ongoing Struggles Amidst Racial Abuse
Vinicius Jr’s journey in Spain has been marked by both brilliance and adversity. The Brazilian forward has been a target of repeated racial abuse, an issue that has cast a shadow over Spanish football. In a high-profile incident last year, three Valencia fans were sentenced to prison for racially insulting Vinicius during a match at the Mestalla Stadium in May 2023.
Ancelotti addressed the broader challenges facing his player, saying, “It’s incredibly hard for him to deal with everything he’s subjected to, especially the insults. It’s not easy, but he’s trying to stay strong and improve.”
Vinicius Jr, who has been vocal about combating racism in football, is reportedly upset about the recent red card and has apologized to his teammates for the incident. The young forward’s resilience continues to inspire, despite the repeated challenges he faces both on and off the pitch.
Focus Shifts to Copa del Rey
With the La Liga drama unfolding, Real Madrid are gearing up for their next challenge in the Copa del Rey. They are set to face Deportiva Minera in the competition’s round of 32 on Monday. The team will be keen to maintain their momentum and avoid distractions stemming from the controversy.
“We need to focus on what’s ahead,” Ancelotti emphasized. “Vinicius is upset, but he understands the importance of moving forward. The team is united, and we’re ready for the upcoming challenges.”
Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey campaign offers an opportunity to rotate players and showcase depth within the squad. Regardless of the appeal’s outcome, the team remains determined to compete on all fronts as they navigate a demanding season.
