Former Netherlands star Ruud Gullit has urged Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior to take a page from Lionel Messi’s book when handling tough situations on the pitch.

Gullit offered this advice after Vinicius was involved in a heated incident during Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Valencia in La Liga.

The Brazilian forward was shown a straight red card in the 79th minute after slapping Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski on the head.

The referee, Cesar Soto Grado, explained in his official report that the dismissal was for “deliberately hitting an opponent in the head with non-negligible force while the ball was not in play.”

The incident also earned Vinicius a two-game suspension.

Speaking on Ziggo Sport, Gullit criticized Vinicius’ actions and demeanor, suggesting that his behavior often draws unnecessary trouble.

“I understand he felt provoked by the goalkeeper, but Vinicius needs to look at Messi.

Messi got kicked all the time, but he simply got up and kept playing,” Gullit said.

Gullit added, “When you constantly complain and provoke others, you can’t expect sympathy.

I’m sure Real Madrid has spoken to him about this, but it seems like he struggles to let go of these habits.”