Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti growing tired of superstar's antics on the field - Reports
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly getting exhausted with striker Vinicius Junior's on-field antics. The 24-year-old has been one of the most cautioned players in La Liga.
While his on-field prowess is undeniable, Vinicius has apparently not endeared himself to Ancelotti for his apparent continued disregard for referees, which have earned him three yellow cards this season.
As per the new rules, only the team captain is allowed to protest referee decisions for penalties, red cards or disallowed goals. However, Los Blancos players, especially Vinicius, don't seem to have adapted to the new reality, drawing flak from Ancelotti, who said after the 3-2 home win over Alaves:
"The rules have changed, and we have to get used to this. We have to avoid protests, and that's it. It's not fair or unfair. We have to adapt to this, and that's it."
Vinicius has received three yellow cards in seven games. As per Tribal Football, Ancelotti, his son Davide and other staff members have spoken to the Brazilian to improve his on-field behaviour, but that seems to have fallen on deaf ears. Ancelotti is now said to have 'given up' on Vinicius.
It's pertinent to note that the reigning champions have received nine cautions in seven games this season, with Vinicius receiving three of them, as mentioned above.
Real Madrid eyeing Barcelona's La Liga record
Real Madrid have had an incredible last 12 months in La Liga. Since losing 3-1 at Atletico Madrid on September 24, 2023, Los Blancos have gone an entire year unbeaten after seeing off Alaves in midweek.
Following their 39th unbeaten game in the Spanish top flight, Carlo Ancelotti's side are only four behind Barcelona's record for the most games unbeaten in La Liga, set between April' 17 and May' 18.
It's pertinent to note that Los Blancos next travel to Atletico on Sunday (September 30) where they last lost in the top flight. If they emerge unscathed, they next play Villarreal and Celta Vigo before hosting La Liga leaders Barcelona on October 26, where they could equal the record set by their arch-rivals.
Diego Simeone's side were responsible for Los Blancos' only two defeats in what was otherwise a hugely successful season for the Merengues. Apart from the aforementioned La Liga win, Atletico also beat Madrid (4-2 in extra time) in the Copa del Rey Round of 16 earlier this year.