Mourinho Demands Special Protection For Vinícius From Referees

Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has called on referees to do more to protect Vinícius Júnior, claiming opponents are increasingly encouraged to foul the Brazilian forward because officials fail to take decisive action.

Mourinho was speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s first home game of the LaLiga season against Real Sociedad on Wednesday, following Saturday’s 2-1 victory at Espanyol.

Vinícius was kicked in the early stages of the match in an incident that went unpunished. Espanyol’s Álex Calatrava, who was involved in the challenge, later scored before being booked for another clash with the Brazil international.

Mourinho described the treatment of Vinícius as a recurring problem and likened it to bullying.

“There’s a dynamic, a spiral. Opponents feel that they can do it, and they do it,” Mourinho said.

He argued that players become increasingly aggressive when they believe they will not be punished.

“It’s like kids. Little kids go as far as you allow them to. With players, it’s the same. If the yellow card doesn’t arrive after 10 fouls, they think: ‘I can be aggressive.’”

Mourinho criticised VAR for failing to intervene over the incident, while acknowledging that the referee may not have seen it.

The Portuguese coach also admitted that Vinícius could improve his conduct towards supporters, but insisted that referees must take responsibility for protecting players from excessive physical treatment.

“His relationship with the crowds … I think that can improve,” he said. “But in terms of the game, kicks, penalties, frustration, I think that’s the responsibility of the referee.”

Meanwhile, Mourinho said he considers Real Madrid’s squad complete despite the transfer window remaining open.

The club have made six signings this summer, all of whom featured in the victory over Espanyol.

“For me, the squad is closed,” Mourinho said, although he acknowledged that unexpected departures could still force the club to act before the window closes.