Flick shuts down Vinícius questions as red-card ban puts Clásico in doubt

Barcelona coach turns attention to Galatasaray

Hansi Flick refused to be drawn into the debate over Vinícius Jr.’s red card when asked about the Real Madrid forward at a press conference on Monday. Flick said Barcelona were preparing for their match against Galatasaray and should show respect to their opponents rather than discuss Real Madrid.

“I hope that one day you’ll learn that I never answer questions about Real Madrid when we’re not directly facing them,” Flick said. “We have to focus on our own match. That’s how we approach things.”

Vinícius was sent off during Real Madrid’s win over Villarreal after a VAR review of an incident in which he pulled Nathan Saliba’s hair. His goal was also ruled out. The forward protested the decision to referee Isidro Díaz de Mera before leaving the pitch.

Possible suspension could affect October 25 meeting

The dismissal has put Vinícius’ availability for the Clásico at Camp Nou on October 25 in question. Mundo Deportivo, as cited by Barça Blaugranes, reported that the forward could receive a two-match suspension: one match for the hair-pulling incident and another for his reaction to the sending-off. A longer ban of up to four matches was also described as a worst-case possibility.

Those outcomes remain possibilities rather than a confirmed sanction. If the reported two-match ban is imposed, Vinícius would miss Real Madrid’s trip to Barcelona. Real Madrid manager José Mourinho did not speak to the press after the Villarreal match, cancelling his press conference following the incident.