Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior’s words upon being substituted in El Clásico included an explicit threat to leave the club, further indicating the extent of his poor relationship with coach Xabi Alonso.
Alonso decided to substitute Vinicius in the 72nd minute of the Barcelona match, and the Brazilian was unable to control himself. He began muttering and making angry gestures, even refusing to sit on the bench and heading to the locker room.
DAZN translated what Vinicius said, which was captured by cameras. It all began when he saw his number on the substitution screen and exclaimed, “Me, coach?” in astonishment.
The Brazilian international continued his angry words by saying, “It’s always me. I’m leaving this team. It’s better for me to leave.”
Despite Alonso’s attempts to calm him down, Vinicius ignored him and did not greet him. He then left the field, continuing his angry outbursts. He returned minutes later, sitting on the bench, deeply saddened and angry, with goalkeeper Andriy Lunin comforting him.
Alonso downplayed what had happened in the post-match press conference, saying only that everyone should highlight the positives Vinicius had shown in El Clásico and how he contributed to Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona.
Marca quoted sources close to Vinicius about the player’s intense anger toward the coach, and also ruled out the possibility that Alonso’s treatment of him was prompted by Real Madrid’s management to pressure the 25-year-old to renew his contract.
A meeting is expected to take place between Vinicius and Alonso three days from now, when Real Madrid returns to training. During the meeting, the two parties will discuss the incident before deciding whether to punish the Brazilian or move on.
It’s worth noting that Spanish media outlets at one point suggested that Vinicius was even considering leaving next January if the situation continued as it is, while the player has consistently maintained that he wants to stay with Real Madrid for as long as possible.
