Mourinho: Ask the Committee why they make the Vini's sanction public 2 hours before today's match

Ahead of the Champions League away match against Roma, Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho spoke to the Spanish media about the timing of Vinicius Jr.'s suspension announcement and his decision to pair Rudiger and Konate in defense for the match.

"I imagine Vinicius Jr. found out about his four-game suspension on the way to the stadium. How would that affect a player's emotions?"

Mourinho: "Well, I think that question should be asked of the competition committee: why did they choose to announce the disciplinary decision at this particular time? Since you're asking, it must be because you think it could have an impact, otherwise you wouldn't be asking me this question."

"I think you should ask the competition committee: why wasn't it announced this morning? Why not tomorrow morning? Why, of all times, was it announced two hours before such an important match for Real Madrid? And let's not forget, Real Madrid is a Spanish club."

On Rudiger

"I really liked how Rudiger and Konate performed together in the last game. They stabilized the whole team even when we were playing with one man down. Considering the strong atmosphere the Roma fans will create at the stadium, I chose to trust them. I'm not saying Hato wouldn't perform well, but I think Rudiger's experience will be valuable at a time like this."

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