LaLiga

Xabi Alonso Responds To Vinicius Jr’s Apology After Clasico Tantrum, Confirms “Matter Is Closed”

Real Madrid Boss Xabi Alonso Has Officially Closed The Chapter On Vinicius Jr’s El Clasico Meltdown.

After the Brazilian winger’s heated reaction to being substituted in Real Madrid’s 2–1 win over Barcelona, Alonso confirmed that Vinicius had apologised both privately and publicly — and that the issue is now “completely resolved.”

The incident, which took place during last weekend’s El Clasico, saw Vinicius react angrily when substituted in the 72nd minute. The forward shouted, “Me? Mister, mister! Me?” before storming toward the tunnel muttering, “Always me… I am leaving the team. It’s better I leave.”

Although he later returned to the bench before full-time, his actions sparked outrage among fans and pundits. Reports claimed Madrid’s hierarchy viewed his behaviour as “unjustifiable,” though the club ultimately chose not to issue any fines or formal disciplinary measures.

In a heartfelt apology posted on X (formerly Twitter), Vinicius wrote:

“Today I want to apologise to all the Madridistas for my reaction when I was substituted in the Clasico. 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.
Sometimes passion gets the better of me because I always want to win and help my team. My competitive character stems from the love I feel for this club and everything it represents.”

During Friday’s press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s clash with Valencia, Alonso addressed the matter directly, confirming that Vinicius had been “impeccable” during the team’s internal meeting.

“We had a meeting with everyone on Wednesday, and Vinicius was impeccable. He spoke honestly and was very good. For me, that settles the matter,” Alonso said.

When asked why he wasn’t mentioned directly in the winger’s public statement, the coach smiled:

“It was a very valuable, very positive statement. He spoke from the heart. I was very satisfied. The matter was settled on Wednesday itself. We trained well yesterday, I see Vini doing well, and we’re all in the same boat and rowing in the same direction.”

Alonso also confirmed that Vinicius will not face any punishment, stressing that the focus is now fully on football.

“It’s closed. There will be no retaliation against him. Everyone, including Vinicius, is focused on what’s most important — the team.”

Renewal Talks Unaffected

Despite the drama, sources in Spain report that the row hasn’t affected Vinicius Jr’s contract renewal plans. Negotiations had stalled as the Brazilian reportedly sought a salary closer to Kylian Mbappe’s, but both sides remain eager to continue their partnership.

Vinicius, whose current deal runs until 2027, has repeatedly expressed his affection for the club:

“My love for this club will never change.”

Real Madrid, for their part, want to tie him down until at least 2030 — a move that would reaffirm his status as one of the club’s key stars for the long haul.

With peace restored, Vinicius is back in focus — ready to let his football, not his frustration, do the talking.


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Abdul Noah Ocholi

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