Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has commented on the treatment of Vinicius Junior by referees and the Brazilian forward's interactions with opposition supporters.
As reported by İdman.Biz, Mourinho drew a distinction between incidents involving fans in the stands and what happens to Vinicius during matches.
"There is what happens on the pitch and what happens off it. As for the reaction of the fans, when it is not racist or homophobic but simply the usual insults from an ordinary supporter, I think Vinicius can control his relationship with opposition fans better.
"As for what happens during the game — the kicks, fouls, penalties and everything else that gradually builds up frustration — that is the referee's responsibility. If I started a match and someone immediately went into a tackle on me, given my character, I might be shown a red card within a minute.
"The referee has to be close to the action, protect all the players and protect the game itself. In that respect, I think it is very difficult to help Vinicius. But his relationship with supporters at away grounds is something that can be worked on," Mourinho was quoted as saying by Real Madrid's official website.
Vinicius has repeatedly found himself at the centre of heated incidents during away matches in Spain, while also being subjected to racist abuse on a number of occasions. The Brazilian remains one of Real Madrid's key attacking players.
