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January 9, 2025 at 3:27 AM

Mallorca Captain Unmoved by Vinicius Jr. Suspension

Antonio Raillo, Mallorca's captain, insists Vinicius Jr.'s suspension status does not affect their focus ahead of the Spanish Super Cup semifinal.

Mallorca Captain Unmoved by Vinicius Jr. Suspension

As RCD Mallorca prepares to face Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal, team captain Antonio Raillo has made it clear that the availability of Vinicius Jr. will not influence their approach to the game. Speaking to reporters, Raillo emphasized that Mallorca's focus is solely on their own performance and strategy.

Vinicius Jr., who was recently handed a two-match suspension for a red card during a heated La Liga encounter against Valencia, remains eligible to play in the Super Cup due to the suspension applying only to league matches. Raillo dismissed questions about the Brazilian forward’s involvement, stating, "His suspension is a matter for the federation. It doesn’t concern us. We are focused on our preparation and our game plan."

Raillo also took the opportunity to address rumors of hostility between Mallorca players and Vinicius Jr., denying reports of locker-room chants aimed at the Real Madrid star. "We respect all players and opponents. What happens off the pitch is not something we dwell on," he clarified. His comments underscore Mallorca's commitment to professionalism and their focus on the task ahead.

The Mallorca captain also acknowledged the challenge of facing a team of Real Madrid's caliber. "We understand the quality they bring, but we also believe in our ability to compete and challenge any opponent," Raillo stated confidently. He highlighted the team's journey to the Spanish Super Cup as a testament to their growth and hard work over recent seasons.

For Mallorca, reaching this stage of the tournament is a significant achievement, reflecting the club's progress in both domestic and competitive football. Raillo expressed pride in representing the fans and the Mallorca community, noting, "This is an opportunity to showcase how far we’ve come and to give our supporters something to celebrate."

As the semifinal approaches, Mallorca remains laser-focused on their performance, refusing to be distracted by external narratives or controversies. With Raillo’s leadership and the team’s collective determination, the stage is set for an exciting clash against one of Europe's most formidable clubs.