Players like me, Yamal, Álvarez need more protection from referees – Vini Jr

Real Madrid's Vinícius Jr. has called for more protection for attacking players, specifically himself, Barcelona's Lamine Yamal, and Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez. The Brazilian forward expressed frustration over what he considers unfair treatment on the pitch, claiming that defenders can foul him multiple times while he often receives the booking.

Speaking to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on X, Vinícius Jr. said, "I feel like defenders can always kick me, yet I am the one who gets booked." The Real Madrid star emphasized the importance of protecting players who can make a difference in matches, adding Yamal and Álvarez to his list. Vinícius also questioned the severity of disciplinary punishments, citing a recent four-match suspension for pulling an opponent’s hair and questioning whether such a punishment is warranted.

He argued that he cannot recall any player being banned for four games for this type of offense. Vinícius Jr. believes that his critics in rival clubs and the media often criticize him unfairly and that his achievements at Real Madrid, including numerous titles, prove his worth. He defiantly concluded by reminding his detractors, "Vini always comes back, remember."