Real Madrid are angry at the treatment that Vinicius Junior has received from opponents and referees. The club feels that the challenges he faced were stronger than they should have been, and the referees are not giving him the protection he needs. That was only highlighted in Los Blancos’ 3-0 away win over Real Mallorca on Monday night.
Vinicius was receiving a particularly tough challenge from Pablo Maffeo in the 30th minute on Monday, but the two had been fighting all night. However, the challenge of the first half saw the defender rub against Vinicius’ knee.
Jose Maria Sanchez Martinez, referee of the night, did not concede any foul. The VAR did not intervene either.
Not the first time
Los Blancos have been concerned about hiring Sanchez Martinez for the match, as Vinicius has come in to receive tough treatment under him already this season.
On February 12, the Brazilian suffered in Villarreal, where he was hit hard by Raul Albiol and Dani Parejo. Once again, Sanchez Martinez did nothing and the VAR failed to intervene.
The scenes in Palma were similar, all while Mallorca fans booed and whistled against the player. Vinicius didn’t let it up to him, and instead put in a great performance. After he scored the opening goal, he stared at the home audience, danced and smiled.
Real Madrid is unhappy that Vinicius is not protected, and also that he is guilty of something. The club is concerned that his style of play will lead to him being targeted further, or that he will earn a reputation for diving in response to the continuing tough challenges.
source: marca