The Brazilian voiced his frustration over what he considers inconsistent officiating, arguing that opponents can repeatedly foul him while he is sometimes the player who receives a booking.
“I feel like defenders can always kick me, yet I am the one who gets booked,” Vinícius said, according to comments reported by football journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The forward also questioned the punishment imposed on him following an incident in which he pulled an opponent’s hair, saying he could not recall another player receiving a four-match suspension for a similar offence.
Vinícius suggested that criticism from rival supporters and sections of the media could influence how incidents involving him are perceived. He also reflected on his development since joining Real Madrid as an 18-year-old, pointing to his goalscoring record and the trophies he has won with the club.
Despite the controversy, the Brazilian ended his remarks with a defiant message, insisting that he would continue to respond to his critics through his performances.
His comments have renewed discussion about refereeing standards, player protection and consistency in disciplinary decisions in Spanish football.
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Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior says referees should do more to protect attacking players, naming Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez. He also questioned a four-match suspension imposed after an incident involving an opponent’s hair. Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has called on referees to provide greater protection for attacking players, specifically mentioning himself, Barcelona’s Lamine...
Key takeaways
- Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior says referees should do more to protect attacking players, naming Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez.
- He also questioned a four-match suspension imposed after an incident involving an opponent’s hair.
- Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has called on referees to provide greater protection for attacking players, specifically mentioning himself, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez.The Brazilian voiced his frustration over what he considers inconsistent officiating, arguing that opponents can repeatedly foul him while he is sometimes the player who receives a booking.“I feel like defenders can always kick me, yet I am the one who gets booked,” Vinícius said, according to comments reported by football journalist Fabrizio Romano.The forward also questioned the punishment imposed on him following an incident in which he pulled an opponent’s hair, saying he could not recall another player receiving a four-match suspension for a similar offence.Vinícius suggested that criticism from rival supporters and sections of the media could influence how incidents involving him are perceived.
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What is this story about?
Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior says referees should do more to protect attacking players, naming Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez. He also questioned a four-match suspension imposed after an incident involving an opponent’s hair. Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has called on referees to provide greater protection for attacking players, specifically mentioning himself, Barcelona’s Lamine...
Who published this story?
Glow 99.1 FM published this story with GlowRy Atuah listed as author.
When was it published?
October 15, 2026
