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The 3 players José Mourinho should consider to fill Vinícius Júnior’s void during his suspension

Vinícius Júnior's red card against Villarreal means he is suspended for 3 games, including el Clásico, so who should José Mourinho start in his place?

By Ben Gray · The Real Champs

Published: Sunday, 11 October 2026 at 12:45 PM

Key Things to Know

The writer suggests Yan Diomandé, Brahim Díaz, and Kylian Mbappé as options to replace the suspended Vinícius Júnior.
Vinícius Júnior received a red card for violent conduct after pulling Nathan Saliba's hair against Villarreal.
The Brazilian will serve a three-match domestic ban that includes the upcoming Clásico against Barcelona at Camp Nou.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Real Champs assesses three potential options for José Mourinho to replace Vinícius Júnior during a three-match domestic suspension. The Brazilian winger was sent off for violent conduct after pulling Nathan Saliba's hair in Real Madrid's win against Villarreal, ruling him out of LaLiga matches against Sevilla, Racing Santander, and the upcoming Clásico against Barcelona.

Writer Ben Gray argues that Mourinho should consider utilizing Yan Diomandé, Brahim Díaz, or moving Kylian Mbappé to the left wing. Diomandé scored against Villarreal, while shifting Mbappé out wide could allow backup striker Carlos Espí to enter the starting lineup as center-forward.

Read the full article on The Real Champs

The 3 players José Mourinho should consider to fill Vinícius Júnior’s void during his suspension

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