Real Madrid: Vinicius Junior risks missing the Clásico after his sending-off
Vinicius Junior could miss the Clásico against FC Barcelona, scheduled for Sunday, October 25, 2026, after being sent off against Villarreal. According to Spanish daily AS, the Real Madrid forward faces a two- to three-match suspension for his action against defender Saliba.
The incident occurred on Saturday, October 10, during Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu. Vinicius saw a goal disallowed after the intervention of the video assistant referee (VAR).
Images showed the Brazilian pulling Saliba’s hair while the defender was unable to compete for the ball. After reviewing the sequence, the referee showed him a straight red card.
Despite the sending-off, Real Madrid maintained their advantage and won the match 1-0.
Read also: Real Madrid: José Mourinho saddened for Vinicius Jr
The Clásico threatened by the length of the suspension
According to AS, the action could be classified as violent conduct outside a normal challenge for the ball. In that case, Article 103.2 of the Spanish disciplinary code provides for a two- to three-match suspension. The final duration will depend on an analysis of the referee’s report and any aggravating circumstances.
Real Madrid are due to face Sevilla FC in La Liga on October 18, before travelling to Barcelona on October 25 for the Clásico.
If Vinicius receives a two-match league suspension, he would therefore miss the match against Sevilla and the clash with Barça. A La Liga suspension does not automatically apply to Champions League matches.
The disciplinary commission has yet to announce its decision. In the meantime, the Brazilian forward’s presence at the October 25 fixture remains uncertain.