The Brazilian winger was sent off after pushing goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski in the neck during a confrontation between the two players. Valencia fans had taunted Vinicius, with some even racially abusing him, a continuation of incidents that have targeted him in the past.
Ancelotti stated, “I think it’s difficult (to be Vinicius), I can’t fully understand what he’s going through, but it’s clearly not easy.” He added, “He has to endure a lot—insults and everything else—and it’s not simple to handle.”
Following the red card, Vinicius expressed regret, and Ancelotti emphasized the need to look ahead. The 24-year-old has been subjected to racial abuse at various stadiums in Spain and is also frequently criticized for his on-field behavior.
Ancelotti pointed out, “He often reacts after clashes with defenders or when fans jeer him, but he’s worked hard on improving his attitude. Nobody is perfect, but he’s made significant progress.” He added that Vinicius’ growth has been so impressive that he is now considered “the best player in the world.”
Vinicius may face a suspension due to the red card, with the final decision expected next week. However, he is still eligible to play in Madrid’s Copa del Rey match against Deportivo Minera on Monday.
“We believe the red card wasn’t deserved and should have been a yellow, so we hope there will be no suspension,” Ancelotti said. Madrid will then play Mallorca in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final on Thursday in Saudi Arabia.
