Endrick Criticizes 4‑Match Ban for Vinicius Jr, Accuses Madrid Targeting
Endrick publicly criticized the 4‑match suspension handed to teammate Vinicius Jr for pulling defender Nathan Saliba’s hair during a La Liga match.

In Brief
- •Endrick publicly criticized the 4‑match suspension handed to teammate Vinicius Jr for pulling defender Nathan Saliba’s hair during a La Liga match.
- •He said the punishment was harsher because of Vinicius’s identity and reputation, claiming Madrid “always target him”.
- •Endrick’s own performance in the Champions League 4‑3 win over AS Roma earned him man‑of‑the‑match honors.
- •Vinicius will miss upcoming fixtures against Sevilla, Barcelona, Racing Santander and Valencia, including the El Clásico.
- •The suspension could impact Madrid’s squad depth and performance in domestic and European competitions.
Why It Matters
The disciplinary decision against Vinicius Jr, a key offensive player for Real Madrid, comes at a critical juncture as the club faces a congested schedule that includes La Liga matches and the Champions League. A four‑match ban removes a central figure from the squad, potentially weakening Madrid’s attacking options and affecting their competitiveness in both competitions. Endrick’s public defense also highlights internal team solidarity and raises questions about perceived bias in Spanish football disciplinary processes.
Key Details
- Suspension Length
- 4 matches
- Incident Date
- October 13, 2026
- Match Result
- Real Madrid 4–3 AS Roma
- Endrick Man of the Match
- Yes
- Upcoming Fixtures Missed
- Sevilla, Barcelona, Racing Santander, Valencia
Context & Background
Vinicius Jr has appeared in only three matches this season, raising concerns about his role under manager José Mourinho.
Original Reporting & Sources
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