Following a notable incident involving Vinicius during a UEFA Champions League match, former professional player Mikael Silvestre, now a member of FIFA's 'Players' Voice' committee, has revealed that there is an ongoing discussion within FIFA about potentially penalizing players who cover their mouths during interactions on the field. Silvestre pointed out that this behavior can at times surpass legitimate tactical discussions, indicating that it may be used to convey messages of hostility during matches.

He drew attention to the specific case of Vinicius amid a heated confrontation during a clash between Benfica and Real Madrid, suggesting that such instances warrant closer scrutiny. Silvestre argued that ordinary discussions between teammates differ significantly from situations where players cover their mouths, which could imply unsportsmanlike intentions. He advocated for stricter penalties against players found guilty of this behavior, proposing not only fines or suspensions but also mandatory educational programs to address the issue.

In conclusion, the notion of regulating player communication on the pitch has been fueled by increasing concerns over sportsmanship and respect in football. Silvestre’s statements indicate that the sport may be taking steps to ensure that incidents like that involving Vinicius are taken seriously, emphasizing that unacceptable behavior should be dealt with to maintain the integrity of the game.