Real Madrid News
Vinicius’ dismissal draws strong response from Valencia star – ‘Do not get involved…’
Hugo Duro, the Valencia forward who scored his team’s only goal in their 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid, has addressed the controversy surrounding Vinicius Jr.’s behaviour during the match.
The Brazilian winger, who was sent off in the 78th minute for shoving Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski, has been at the centre of criticism following his actions.
The incident unfolded when Vinicius, after a heated exchange, pushed Dimitrievski with both hands. Referee Soto Grado, upon reviewing the altercation on the pitchside monitor, deemed the act worthy of a straight red card.
The decision left the Real Madrid player visibly frustrated, and he had to be escorted off the field by his teammates. The situation has since sparked a larger debate about Vinicius’ conduct on and off the pitch.
Duro’s take on Vinicius
Hugo Duro, while reflecting on the match during an interview with El Larguero (h/t Mundo Deportivo), expressed disappointment over the Brazilian’s attitude.
He highlighted how Vinicius seemed to provoke the home crowd and Valencia players with unnecessary gestures before his expulsion.
Duro suggested that such behaviour does more harm than good, not only to Vinicius himself but also to his team, which relies heavily on his talent.
“It’s a controversial subject, which is neither here nor there for me, but Vinicius should dedicate himself to playing because he is a great player and he does it quite well.
“But as advice, I would tell him not to get involved in wars that aren’t his because I think they harm him and the team,” he said.
Real Madrid will appeal
Real Madrid, however, have taken issue with the decision to send their star winger off. The club plans to appeal the red card, arguing that the referee failed to adequately consider Dimitrievski’s role in the confrontation.
According to Madrid’s viewpoint, the Valencia goalkeeper’s actions provoked Vinicius, a detail they believe should not have been overlooked during the review process.
This controversy has only added fuel to the ongoing debate surrounding player conduct and officiating in high-pressure matches.
While Vinicius’ immense skill on the pitch is undeniable, incidents like this underline the importance of maintaining composure to avoid unnecessary distractions that could impact the team’s performance.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
