AFCON 2025
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has come to the defence of Vinicius Junior following the forward’s controversial red card in the 2-1 win over Valencia.
Ancelotti expressed hope that the Brazilian would avoid a lengthy suspension and emphasised the improvements Vinicius has made in handling pressure and criticism.
The Brazilian was sent off for shoving Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in the head. Ancelotti, however, is convinced that the punishment was harsh.
Speaking to reporters, the Italian tactician said:
“We continue to be convinced that it wasn’t red; it was yellow. We hope that he isn’t suspended for many games.”
“I’m not in his shoes, but it can’t be easy to put up with everything that happens, the insults… But he tries to improve; I think he has improved.
“He is obviously sad about the red; he apologised, but we have to look forward because no one is perfect.”
