Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has responded to Vinicius Junior’s angry reaction after he was substituted during Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clásico clash at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
The Brazilian winger was replaced by Rodrygo in the 72nd minute while Real Madrid was leading 2-1, thanks to goals from Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham. However, Vinicius appeared visibly frustrated with the decision, ignoring Alonso on his way off the pitch and later storming down the tunnel while the match was still ongoing.
When asked about the player’s emotional outburst, Alonso downplayed the incident, insisting that it was not a major issue and would be addressed privately. “I don’t want to lose focus on what is important,” the coach said in his post-match interview. “These are things we will talk about. Within the great game that he has been in, Vini has also contributed a lot.”
The Spanish tactician further emphasized that emotional reactions are natural among passionate players, adding that every footballer has a different temperament. “Within the squad, there are different personalities. Now we will enjoy and, in due course, we will talk in the dressing room,” Alonso stated.
Despite the brief tension, Alonso praised Vinicius for his energy and contribution during the game, noting that the winger’s commitment and creativity played a key role in Real Madrid’s hard-fought win over their arch-rivals.





