Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior apologizes after red card for pulling hair before El Classico: What’s next

Soccer Football – LaLiga – Real Madrid vs Villarreal – Estadio Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain – October 10, 2026 Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior reacts as he leaves the pitch after being shown a red card Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior apologized to his teammates and fans after receiving a straight red card during Saturday’s 1-0 LaLiga win over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu.The Brazilian now faces the possibility of missing the crucial El Clásico against Barcelona on October 25, subject to the decision of the disciplinary committee.Vinícius came on as a second-half substitute and was sent off around 20 minutes later after a VAR review showed he had pulled the hair of Villarreal defender Nathan Saliba.His apparent second goal was ruled out, leaving Real Madrid with 10 men to defend their narrow lead.After the match, the 26-year-old apologized on social media, writing: “I apologize to the team and the fans.”

Possible suspension for El Clásico

Spanish Football Federation rules classify hair pulling as violent behaviour. Under Article 130, such an offense can result in a suspension of one to three matches, unless injury occurs.Real Madrid’s next three league games are against Sevilla, Barcelona and Racing Santander. A ban covering the October 25 clash at the Camp Nou would be a major setback for the Spanish giants as Vinícius awaits a final decision.

Barcelona maintains a perfect start

Meanwhile, Barcelona continued their impressive start to the LaLiga season with a comfortable 3-0 home win over Getafe to secure their eighth win in a row.Anthony Gordon opened the scoring inside two minutes with a deflected effort, while Gabriel Jesus doubled the advantage in the 30th minute on his first start for the club.The win was sealed in the 73rd minute by Jules Koundé, who headed in a cross from Lamine Yamal. Barcelona remains at the top of the table with 24 points.