Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has been handed a four-match suspension for pulling his opponent's hair..

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced on its official website on Thursday that Real Madrid's Brazilian international forward, Vinícius Júnior, has been handed a four-match suspension for pulling his opponent's hair, followed by further misconduct after being sent off during a recent La Liga match against Villarreal. 

According to the RFEF’s official statement, the Disciplinary Committee imposed Vinícius a two-match ban for the malicious act of pulling Nathan Saliba’s hair. An additional two-match suspension was issued due to his aggressive confrontation with the officiating team after receiving a red card.

Both Vinícius and Real Madrid have expressed their disagreement with the ruling and have indicated their intention to appeal.

As a result, Vinícius will be unavailable for this weekend’s first El Clásico of the season, where they will play against arch-rivals Barcelona away at the Camp Nou.

Following that fixture, Los Blancos are set to face Sevilla, Racing de Santander, and Valencia.

The 26-year-old has faced a barrage of intense criticism this season due to his poor form. His recent decision to grow a beard has even led some fans in Brazil to jokingly speculate that the player currently appearing on the pitch, or on television, might actually be an imposter.

So far this season, Vinícius has so far made 10 appearances for the La Liga giants across all competitions, scoring one goal and providing three assists.

Image credit: Internet / The Athletic