Vinicius apologies to fans after Villarreal red card but takes fresh swipe at referees

Vinicius apologies to fans after Villarreal red card but takes fresh swipe at referees Real Madrid’s return to club football after an international break that dragged on for ages could not have come under more controversial circumstances. Los Blancos returned to winning ways against Villarreal, with Yan Diomande’s goal helping Mourinho’s team to a 1-0 victory. However, the entire game was marred by the controversy involving Vinicius Junior, with the Brazilian receiving a red card in the second half. After the game, Vinicius apologised to his Real Madrid team-mates and supporters after his controversial red card against the Yellow Submarine. Vinicius apologises after controversial dismissal Vinicius posted a message on Instagram following Madrid’s narrow 1-0 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu, acknowledging his mistake. “The joy continues… Sorry to my team and the fans,” Vinicius wrote. The Brazilian entered the match as a substitute but was dismissed in the 72nd minute following an incident involving Villarreal defender Nathan Saliba. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vinicius Jr. ⚡️🇧🇷 (@vinijr) Vinicius initially appeared to have doubled Madrid’s advantage, only for the goal to be disallowed after the referee identified a foul in the build-up. The winger had pulled Saliba’s hair during the confrontation, resulting in his dismissal. Madrid were then reduced to 10 men. Despite the victory, Vinicius’ angry reaction to the decision has added to the controversy surrounding his dismissal. Brazilian expresses frustration with referees Vinicius later shared another Instagram story questioning the treatment he receives from match officials. “And the one who always gets yellow and red cards is Vinicius, what a disgrace,” read the reposted message. It featured images of previous incidents in which opponents allegedly escaped punishment for challenges against him. Vinicius shares a story of the refereeing inconsistencies against him. (Source: Instagram) His decision to share the post suggests that, despite apologising for the consequences of his dismissal, Vinicius remains unhappy with how referees handle certain situations involving him. The winger now faces a potential suspension that could rule him out of the upcoming Clasico against Barcelona. Mourinho must help Vinicius channel his frustration For Madrid, the immediate priority should be preventing this incident from becoming another distraction from their sporting situation. Vinicius has struggled to find his best form this season, and a suspension would only make it harder for him to rebuild momentum. Mourinho has continued to support the Brazilian, but that faith must also come with a step in the right direction from the player. There is a difference between protecting a player from unfair treatment and allowing frustration to influence his actions on the pitch. In a way, the coming weeks and a potential suspension could help the Brazilian rest, reset and clear his mind. It remains to be seen how long Madrid will be without Vinicius and how he learns and improves from this situation in the coming games.