Vinícius Júnior apologises after heated El Clásico outburst
Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior has issued a public apology to fans following his angry reaction to being substituted during Sunday’s heated El Clásico victory over Barcelona, with that outburst briefly overshadowing his side’s dramatic 2-1 win at the Bernabéu, reports BritPanorama.
The Brazilian forward was withdrawn in the 72nd minute and appeared visibly frustrated, heading straight down the tunnel while muttering angrily to himself. Cameras from broadcaster DAZN captured the 25-year-old saying: “Always me! I’m leaving the team! It’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.”
His reaction quickly sparked discussion among supporters and pundits, raising fresh questions about his temperament and future at the club. Vinícius later returned to the bench before becoming involved in tense post-match scenes, where he was seen attempting to confront Barcelona’s teenage winger Lamine Yamal. Security staff and teammates intervened to diffuse the situation, with both clubs later calling for calm after what had been a fiery encounter.
On Monday, the winger took to social media to express regret over his behaviour. “Today I want to apologise to all the Madridistas for my reaction when I was substituted in the Clásico,” Vinícius wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Just as I have already done in person during today’s training, I also want to apologise again to my teammates, the club, and the president.” He emphasised that his emotions were driven by a desire to perform at his best, adding, “I promise to keep fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since the first day.”
The apology comes at a delicate time for the forward, whose relationship with both management and supporters has faced scrutiny in recent months. Despite being one of Real Madrid’s most influential players since joining from Flamengo in 2018 for £38.7 million, reports in Spain have suggested that the club could be open to offers should a substantial bid arrive. Vinícius has scored 111 goals in 335 appearances, establishing himself as a key figure under various managers and a crucial component in the club’s domestic and European success.
His flair and intensity have made him a fan favourite, but his fiery temperament has occasionally led to controversy both on and off the pitch. Observers have noted that this incident is not the first time his passion has boiled over during high-stakes fixtures. Those close to the player insist his frustration stems from ambition rather than dissent, pointing to his relentless drive to succeed at the highest level. Real Madrid officials have reportedly accepted Vinícius’s apology, with the club keen to move forward and maintain focus on upcoming fixtures as the team continues its pursuit of another La Liga title.
Vinícius could feature when Los Blancos lock horns with Valencia on Saturday (8pm). Real’s win over Barcelona keeps them five points clear at the top of La Liga, ahead of their arch-rivals. As the season unfolds, how the Brazilian balances passion with composure might be as crucial as the goals he scores.
