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Red card, suspension and a conspiracy - what's up with Vini Jr?

Vinicius Jr. has faced a tumultuous stretch at Real Madrid, beginning with prolonged contract negotiations that left his future at the club uncertain for over a year.

Despite eventually securing a new deal, the Brazilian forward has since been embroiled in controversy, including bizarre online theories suggesting he was replaced by a body double after undergoing cosmetic surgery post-World Cup. The latest setback came during a match against Villarreal, where he was sent off for pulling Nathan Saliba’s hair during play, a decision overturned by VAR after an initial goal was disallowed.

His subsequent protest at the referee’s ruling led to further disciplinary action, culminating in a four-match suspension that will see him miss El Clásico against Barcelona. The incident also marked the first time in nearly a year that Vinicius did not start for Real Madrid, as manager José Mourinho opted to bench him in favor of Yan Coulibaly.

Mourinho later expressed sympathy for Vinicius, acknowledging the player’s frustration and hard work, while also noting the backlash he has faced from some Real Madrid supporters this season.

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