Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. has received a four-match suspension following his red card against Villarreal. The ban rules him out of El Clasico against Barcelona on Oct. 25, dealing a significant blow to Real Madrid ahead of one of the season’s biggest LaLiga fixtures.
The Spanish Football Federation’s competition committee issued the suspension after a video review showed Vinicius pulling Villarreal player Nathan Saliba’s hair. The incident occurred shortly after the Brazilian came on as a substitute and appeared to score, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review.
## Why Vinicius Jr. Was Suspended
Under Spanish Football Federation rules, pulling an opponent’s hair is considered violent conduct. Vinicius received a two-match ban for violent conduct, with the ruling noting that the action was not an attempt to play the ball.
The committee added two more matches to the suspension because Vinicius argued with the referee in an aggressive manner and had to be restrained by teammates. That brings his total ban to four domestic games.
## Which Matches Will Vinicius Miss?
Vinicius is set to miss Real Madrid’s upcoming domestic matches against Sevilla, Barcelona, Racing Santander and Valencia. The suspension means he will not be available for El Clasico against FC Barcelona on Oct. 25.
His absence is a setback for Real Madrid, as the forward is a key attacking threat. The club will need to adjust its lineup and find another way to create chances during the four-match ban.
## Vinicius Can Still Play in the Champions League
The suspension applies to domestic competitions only, so Vinicius remains eligible for Real Madrid’s European fixtures. He can play against AS Roma, RB Leipzig and AEK Athens while serving his LaLiga suspension.
Vinicius is expected to return to domestic action after the November international break, when Real Madrid face Celta Vigo on Nov. 22.
## Mourinho Reflects on the Red Card
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho said he had chosen to bring Vinicius on as a substitute after deciding to protect him following the previous match against Atletico Madrid. Mourinho said the crowd welcomed the winger when he began warming up and that Vinicius played well after entering the game.
He also described the disallowed goal and sending-off as disappointing, while suggesting the performance had helped Vinicius rediscover some of his confidence and enjoyment on the pitch.