'Not in our hands' - Inigo Martinez criticizes La Liga and RFEF for Vinicius Jr. red card

In Spanish football, the Competition Committee's decision to penalise Vinicius Jr. for just two games is still causing controversy. Recently, Inigo Martínez criticised La Liga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) over the Real Madrid winger's meagre sentence. Recalling an incident from his time wearing the "lions" jersey, the FC Barcelona defender did not hold back following the Supercopa de Espana semifinal matchup with his previous team, Athletic Club, 0-2.

"I don't think it's fair either. There was a sanction a few years ago, where I was given four games for much less, and the issue was not discussed and others were given much less. These are things that others decide and not in our hands," he said on Mundo Deportivo. 

The Cesar Soto Grado investigation finally favoured the Brazilian, even though the Vinicius Jr. move toward goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski should have been viewed as aggressive and punished with at least four games. Inigo referred to his direct red card during a game against Levante on February 26, 2021 (1-1). Referee Isidro Diaz de Mera reported that the centre defender "hit an opponent in the face with excessive force" and was suspended for four games. As the players were making their way to the locker rooms following the conclusion of the game, the incident involving Sergio Leon took place.

Real Madrid aim to win another title

At the end of the day, "I am at Barca, and I just want our guys to be there," he said. Last but not least, "Vini" will serve his ban during the league games against Valladolid (away) and Las Palmas (home). He can, however, play without any issues against Mallorca on Thursday and against Barca in a fictitious Supercopa final. The Copa del Rey round of 16 matchup against Celta is scheduled for next Wednesday, and he will be free to play.

Aiming to add another title to their collection, Real Madrid is presently in Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup. On Thursday, Los Blancos will play Real Mallorca in the semi-finals; the winner will then play Barcelona in the final title match.