Real Madrid’s Vinicius says he’s being targeted by referees

Vinicius wants protection for players like himself, Yamal and Alvarez ‘who bring something different to the game.’Published On 15 Oct 202615 Oct 2026Vinicius Junior is not happy with how he is being treated by referees and wants more protection for talented players like him, Lamine Yamal and Julian Alvarez.The Brazil forward spoke out after Real Madrid’s 4-3 come-from-behind win at Roma in the Champions League on Wednesday.He acknowledged that he is going through a slump, but said he had “no doubt” he will regain his best form soon.The match against Roma came hours after he was handed a four-game suspension in the Spanish league after being sent off for pulling the hair of an opponent and for protesting against the referee.“I don’t recall any other player receiving a four-match suspension. I tried to move the player in front of me out of the way and I ended up getting caught in his hair,” Vinicius said.“That was it – a red card – which is why I was so surprised. I didn’t say a single offensive word to the referee that would warrant a four-match ban. But when it comes to Vini, it’s all too easy.“The opposing team will always say it’s justified and the press will say the same. I unde...