𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋: Vinicius Jr has been suspended for the next two games in La Liga

Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Junior has been handed a significant two-match suspension following the controversial incident during Friday’s match against Valencia at Mestalla. The young Brazilian forward faced immediate repercussions after he pushed Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski, an action that resulted in a straight red card from referee Soto Grado. The implications of this decision are considerable, as Vinicius will be forced to miss Real Madrid’s next two LaLiga games: the home match against Las Palmas and the away clash with Valladolid.

Interestingly, the situation could have had more severe implications for Vinicius. Had the disciplinary committee deemed his actions to warrant a harsher punishment, he might have missed the upcoming Spanish Supercup as well. However, he will still be available for selection when Real Madrid faces Mallorca this Thursday. Additionally, he remains eligible for a potential final match against either Athletic Bilbao or FC Barcelona in this prestigious tournament, which is taking place in Saudi Arabia.

In light of Vinicius’s suspension, coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to adjust the attacking lineup significantly. Kylian Mbappe is likely to take on the left side of the offensive formation, while either Jude Bellingham or Rodrygo will occupy the central role. This change could offer a new tactical dynamic for the team as they navigate through this portion of the season without their key attacker.

The RFEF Disciplinary Committee has formally imposed a two-match ban on Vinicius Junior, citing his actions during the match as a case of violent conduct. The official resolution states, “2 matches of suspension for resorting to violent conduct outside of the game, without being in a position to contest the ball or the play being stopped,” along with a fine of €700 placed on the club and €600 on the player, as per Article 52 guidelines.

Furthermore, the committee clarified that they categorized Vinicius’s conduct as a minor offense rather than outright aggression. This classification limited the potential suspension to two matches instead of three, allowing Vinicius to serve his ban strictly during La Liga matches. As a result, he will not miss the critical semifinal against Mallorca or the subsequent Supercopa final, should Real Madrid advance. Additionally, he is expected to be available for the Copa del Rey round of 16 match shortly afterward.

As documented in Soto Grado’s match report, the red card was issued due to Vinicius “deliberately striking an opponent in the head while the ball was not in play, using considerable force.” The referee also noted the chaotic scenes that ensued post-expulsion, highlighting that Vinicius required restraint from club officials as he continued to express his discontent over the decision while being led to the locker room.

These developments will undoubtedly have a significant impact on Real Madrid’s campaign in both La Liga and the Supercopa de España as they aim to maintain their competitiveness in the ongoing season despite the absence of one of their key offensive players. The team’s depth will now be tested as they prepare for the challenges ahead.