Olaleye Idowu
Barcelona centre-back Inigo Martinez has expressed his anger over what he sees as the “lenient” two-match ban handed to Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr.
Martinez believes the Brazilian deserved a harsher punishment after he was sent off against Valencia.
Vinicius was shown a red card in the 79th minute for slapping goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski on the head during their 2-1 win over Los Ches on January 3.
Despite his incredible talent, Vinicius Jr has often been involved in controversies due to his antics on the pitch.
Referee Cesar Soto Grado reported after the match that Vinicius was sent off for “hitting an opponent on the head deliberately, without the ball in play, and using non-negligible force.”
Dimitrievski was also issued a yellow card for “arguing with an opponent without resorting to insults or threats.”
Vinicius’ original ban, which many expected to be between four and twelve games, was ultimately reduced to just two matches.
Mundo Deportivo quoted Barcelona star Martinez as being critical of the reduced punishment.
“I don’t think it’s fair either. There was a sanction a few years ago where I was given four games for much less, and the issue wasn’t even discussed, while others are given much lighter penalties,” he said.
“These are decisions made by others and are not in our hands.”
Martinez, who joined Barcelona in July 2023, is likely referring to an incident during his time at Athletic Club (2018-2024).
