Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior has issued a public apology following his furious reaction to being substituted during Sunday’s heated 2–1 El Clásico victory over Barcelona, MySportDab Reports.
The Brazilian, who was withdrawn in the 71st minute despite a strong performance, stormed straight to the dressing room after angrily confronting manager Xabi Alonso.
Vinícius had played a key role in Real Madrid’s winning goal and was a constant threat down the left flank, tormenting Barcelona defender Jules Koundé.
However, his substitution and subsequent outburst overshadowed what should have been a celebratory evening as Real ended a four-game losing streak against their fierce rivals.
On Wednesday, the 25-year-old took to social media to apologize to fans, teammates, club president Florentino Pérez, and the club — but pointedly made no mention of Alonso.
“Today I want to apologize to all Real Madrid fans for my reaction when I was substituted in El Clásico,” Vinícius wrote.
“Sometimes my passion gets the better of me because I always want to win and help my team.”
Reports suggest the Brazilian’s relationship with Alonso has been tense since the manager’s appointment in May, with Vinícius frequently substituted despite his productive partnership with Kylian Mbappé.
Adding to the drama, Vinícius returned to the pitch late on as tempers flared following Pedri’s red card, needing to be restrained amid a post-match scuffle.
Real Madrid currently sit top of La Liga with 27 points, five clear of Barcelona.
