Barcelona question fairness of ban imposed on Real Madrid forward | OneFootball

A recent report from SPORT has highlighted the inconsistency in the way Barcelona perceive sanctions in football, particularly regarding Vinicius Jr.’s actions during a match against Valencia, which has resulted in a two-match suspension.

The Barcelona board feel that this disparity in judgment is hard to ignore, especially when comparing it to previous incidents, including one involving Robert Lewandowski.

During the game at Mestalla, Vinicius was sent off after striking Valencia’s goalkeeper, Stole Dimitrievski. This was a clear act of aggression, occurring when the ball was not in play.

Under normal circumstances, such a violent act would have warranted a sanction ranging from 4 to 12 games, reflecting the severity of the incident.

However, referee Cesar Soto Grado’s match report failed to include any reference to this crucial detail, which significantly downplayed the situation.

Furthermore, the report also softened the description of Vinicius’ confrontation with the referee after his expulsion, which, in other instances, could have resulted in an even harsher punishment.

Impartial? Maybe so…

Vinicius Jr. has been given a two-match ban. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

The Competition Committee, aware of the vague language in the referee’s report, opted to impose the minimum possible sanction.

This decision has raised eyebrows, particularly among those at Barcelona, who see a glaring inconsistency in the way disciplinary actions are being handled.

In contrast, just two seasons ago, Robert Lewandowski faced a three-match ban for a relatively mild incident.

The Polish striker had been sent off for two yellow cards against Osasuna, but it was an alleged gesture—touching his nose—that led to an additional two-match suspension for what was deemed to be disrespect toward the referee.

The ambiguity of Lewandowski’s gesture did not stop the authorities from applying a harsher penalty, leaving Barcelona confused about the reasoning behind these contrasting decisions.

From Barcelona’s perspective, it is difficult to comprehend how a violent act like Vinicius’ was given a lighter sanction than a questionable gesture by Lewandowski.

This raises questions about the consistency and fairness of disciplinary measures in Spanish football, especially when it comes to key players and high-profile incidents.