Vinicius Jr has issued an apology for storming down the tunnel during El Clasico, but his message failed to mention one key person.
The Real Madrid star attracted unwanted attention during Sunday's clash with Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu, a fixture that Los Blancos won 2-1, when he was substituted after 72 minutes. Replaced by Rodrygo with Los Blancos already leading 2-1, Vini Jr reacted furiously to the decision to withdraw him.
Clearly angry, the Brazilian forward exclaimed in anger before coming off the pitch and storming down the tunnel without acknowledging head coach, Xabi Alonso. It's reported that Vini Jr said: "Me, it's always me, I'm leaving the team, it's better that I go.”
Vinicius Jr Refuses to Apologise To Xabi Alonso
Vinicius Jr
Now that the dust has settled on El Clasico, Vini Jr took to social media to apologise to Real Madrid's supporters for his reaction to being substituted.
He 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. I promise to keep fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since the first day.”
While his apology was heartfelt, he failed to acknowledge his manager, Alonso, who made the decision to take him off. As it turns out, the decision to exclude him from the apology was 100 percent intentional.
According to The Athletic, the Brazilian winger left Alonso out after being left ‘hurt’ by the treatment that he has received from the Real Madrid boss. He is, however, set to receive a fine for his conduct.
Despite being angry with his manager, the report states that Vini Jr feels supported by the club. However, the Madrid hierarchy are unhappy with the situation and have been left less than pleased with the winger's reaction and Alonso's handling of the player.
The 25-year-old has scored five goals and provided four assists in 13 games for Real Madrid this term.
However, he may have a point regarding his substitution. That's because Vini Jr has only played the full 90 minutes in three of the 13 matches played this term, being replaced seven times and coming on as a sub on three occasions.