Vinicius is once again causing problems for Real Madrid.

Vinicius has gone 12 days without playing. Photo: Reuters .

Real Madrid entered their away match at Valencia's Mestalla stadium with a severely depleted squad. The Spanish giants faced one of the most difficult periods of the season, with immense pressure both professionally and mentally.

The biggest blow came from Jude Bellingham. The English midfielder suffered a left hamstring injury early in the match against Rayo Vallecano and was forced to leave the field in tears.

Tests have confirmed Bellingham has suffered a torn semitendinosus muscle, meaning he will definitely miss Mestalla and be sidelined for about a month. This is a major blow to the midfield, where Bellingham plays a central role in Real Madrid's style of play.

The defense is also in a makeshift state. Asencio is playing in a precarious condition, having suffered a fractured right tibia for several weeks. This injury is not life-threatening but is painful and poses a potential risk if he continues to play regularly.

Carvajal has only recently returned for very limited time after a knee arthroscopy, while Trent, Rudiger, and Mendy could be registered but lack match fitness.

Vinicius Jr. has always been the subject of controversy.

While injuries are an unavoidable risk, Vinicius's absence takes on a different dimension. The Brazilian forward is unavailable due to accumulating five yellow cards, a consequence of his usual uncontrolled reactions on the pitch.

With Real Madrid desperately needing players for one of La Liga's toughest away matches, Vinicius' suspension is clearly an unnecessary loss.

Notably, Mestalla has long been considered a "hot spot" for Vinicius, where he has experienced many tense and emotional matches. However, this time, Real Madrid will have to travel without one of their most important attacking players, not because of injury, but because of discipline.

History is also not on the side of the Spanish royal team. Real Madrid have only won 3 of their last 11 away matches at Mestalla. With a depleted squad and a morale that has only just recovered but is not yet fully healed, the challenge facing Real Madrid is immense.

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