Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez has expressed frustration over the two-match ban handed to Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. following his red card in a controversial incident during a 2-1 win against Valencia on January 3.
The Brazilian forward was sent off in the 79th minute for slapping Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski on the head, an action the referee described as a deliberate act of aggression using “non-negligible force.”
Many had anticipated a harsher punishment, with expectations of a four to twelve-game suspension, but Vinicius received a reduced two-game ban. Dimitrievski was also given a yellow card for arguing during the altercation.
Martinez, speaking to Mundo Deportivo, called the decision lenient and unfair. “I don’t think it’s fair either. There was a time I was given four games for much less, and it wasn’t even discussed, while others are given much lighter penalties,” he said, referencing a prior incident during his time at Athletic Club.
Vinicius Jr., despite his immense talent, has faced criticism for frequent on-field controversies, adding to debates about the consistency of disciplinary actions in football.
