On Tuesday, José Mourinho highlighted that “there’s a difference” in how Vinícius Júnior faces treatment from both opponents and referees. He urged officials to take more action to safeguard the Real Madrid star.
During Madrid’s 2-1 LaLiga victory over Espanyol on Saturday, a foul against Vinícius went uncalled. Mourinho likened the treatment of the winger to “bullying” after the game.
On Wednesday, Madrid will welcome Real Sociedad for their first home match of the season at the Bernabéu.
Mourinho stated in a news conference, “What I can say is — and it’s the same in friendlies, in games outside Spain — the difference in how Vinícius is treated compared to other players is clear. There’s a dynamic at play; opponents feel they can foul him, and they do. It’s evident to me.”
“It’s like children. They will push boundaries as far as allowed. The same applies to players; if a yellow card isn’t issued after several fouls, they’ll think, ‘I can be rough.'”
The player who fouled Vinícius, Álex Calatrava, later scored for Espanyol before receiving a yellow card for another altercation with the Brazil international.
Mourinho acknowledged, “Regarding the aggression aimed at Vinícius, I understand the referee might not have seen it. The fourth official hesitated to make a crucial decision for the game. However, it’s fair to say that VAR underperformed.”
“I always believe in referees before a match, no matter the league… But after the game, there are moments when I’m dissatisfied.”
He also expressed that he believes Vinícius could handle certain aspects of his behavior on the field better. “There’s a distinction between what happens on the pitch and off it,” Mourinho said. “His interactions with fans — not necessarily racist but ‘normal’ insults — could be improved. However, in terms of kicks, penalties, and frustration on the field, that responsibility falls to the referee. If I started a match and got kicked, given my temperament, I’d likely receive a red card shortly after! Players should be protected.”
Mourinho did not anticipate any further signings for Madrid in this transfer window, noting that the team had already secured six new players this summer, all of whom played against Espanyol.
“For me, the squad is closed,” he stated. “However, with the market still open, you never know what might transpire. A player could approach me and say they want to leave after being benched for two matches. That scenario is always possible.
“I don’t know; perhaps the president [Florentino Pérez] or José Ángel Sánchez might call me about an incredible offer for a player. But as far as I’m concerned, the squad is settled.”