Arsenal Await Vinícius Fate After Hair-Pulling Red Card

According to a report by footballTransfers on Sunday October 11, 2026, Vinícius Júnior’s brief appearance against Villarreal ended in controversy on Saturday.

The Real Madrid forward came on as a second-half substitute and appeared to score from Jude Bellingham’s cross, but VAR ruled out the goal after spotting him pull Nathan Saliba’s hair in the build-up.

Referee Isidro Díaz de Mera sent Vinícius off with a straight red card. The Brazilian protested angrily and had to be restrained by teammates.

Despite being reduced to ten men, Real held on for a 1–0 victory, sealed by Yan Diomande’s first goal for the club since joining from RB Leipzig. Head coach José Mourinho did not attend the post-match press conference.

Vinícius later apologised to Real supporters in an Instagram post, writing: “I am still happy. Sorry to my team and the fans.” He did not mention Saliba.

According to SPORT, Vinícius could receive a two-match La Liga suspension, potentially ruling him out of this month’s Clasico against Barcelona.

The report points to Mallorca defender Johan Mojica, who received the same ban after pulling Levante’s Roger Brugué’s hair in May.

Real host Sevilla on Sunday, 18 October, before travelling to face Barcelona a week later. Mourinho’s side are already six points behind the league leaders, who have won all eight of their opening matches in the 2026–27 season.

Arsenal reportedly made Vinícius a leading target during the summer transfer window as they sought a marquee signing for their attack. The Gunners missed out after he agreed to a new six-year contract with Real in August.

Arsenal have nevertheless made a strong start, winning eight of their nine matches in all competitions, including the Community Shield. They came from behind to beat Leeds United on Saturday, with Riccardo Calafiori and Bruno Guimarães scoring for Mikel Arteta’s side.

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