Four-Game Suspension Hits Real Madrid Squad En Route to Rome
Real Madrid forward Vinicius received a four-game suspension from the Disciplinary Committee, a severe punishment that was delivered to the team bus as it traveled to Rome’s Olympic Stadium, en.as.com reported. The ruling leaves the Brazilian sidelined from domestic LaLiga action for more than a month, restricting his immediate appearances to upcoming Champions League fixtures against RB Leipzig at the Bernabéu and AEK in Athens, unless the Appeals Committee intervenes.
Zero Dribbles and Low Touches Mark Unprecedented Rome Performance
Following the news of the suspension, Vinicius turned in a performance that lacked his usual attacking impact during the match in Rome. The forward failed to register a single shot or attempt a single dribble across nearly an hour on the field, managing only 22 touches. This statistical output marked an unprecedented low in his 310 starts for Real Madrid.
🚨 Something has changed with Vinícius Jr. in 2026. He is smiling again, and is deciding games. He has exploded since the start of the year and Real Madrid is revolving around his talent again. @marca pic.twitter.com/X6QQRmnw1T
Metrics Reveal a Sharp Drop in Take-Ons and Goal Involvements
The statistics point to a notable decline in the player’s attacking output compared to previous campaigns. Vinicius currently averages 4.68 attempted dribbles per 90 minutes, successfully beating an opponent 1.97 times per match with a 42.1% success rate. That volume stands in stark contrast to the 2022-23 season, when he attempted 9.43 dribbles per 90 minutes and completed 3.71. Finding the net has proved equally challenging, with just one goal—scored against Real Sociedad—and three assists across 731 minutes of play this season, yielding a direct goal involvement every 182 minutes compared to one every 132.8 minutes last term.
Frustration and Self-Criticism Follow the Disciplinary Blow
Addressing reporters in the mixed zone after the match, Vinicius acknowledged his dip in form and accepted the reaction of supporters. I wouldn’t say I’m worried, but I am angry with myself for not being at my best. In the end, Vini always comes back. I’m sure the best Vinicius will return. It’s a difficult moment for me, but I have to keep working and things will turn around,
he said. Discussing the crowd’s reaction, he added, The boos probably don’t help me, but the fans pay for their tickets and have the right to say whatever they want. It’s better when they support us because we play better with the fans on our side. But I’d rather they boo me than one of our young players.