Vinicius Junior Accused of Disrespecting Real Madrid Teammate During El Clásico

Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has been warned that his behaviour during El Clasico could damage his reputation at the club after he appeared to ignore manager Xabi Alonso and walk straight down the tunnel when substituted in the 72nd minute of the 2-1 win over Barcelona.

The Brazilian forward, who was replaced by Rodrygo, cut an angry figure as he left the field. Spanish cameras caught him muttering, “Always me! I’m leaving the team! It’s better if I leave!” — comments that have since sparked widespread criticism within and outside the club.

According to reports in Spain, Real Madrid officials were unimpressed by Vinicius’ actions, viewing them as “disrespectful and unhelpful” to team unity. Disciplinary action is reportedly being considered, with some teammates said to have privately expressed frustration at the incident.

Vinicius Junior Growing Frustration

The 24-year-old’s performances this season have been inconsistent, and his relationship with Alonso has appeared strained in recent weeks. Vinicius has registered five goals and four assists in 10 La Liga games, but he is yet to score in the Champions League.

Critics Slam His Behaviour

Vinicius Junior emotional outburst has been heavily criticised by former professionals. Diego Lugano, speaking on ESPN’s Round Review, called his actions a “disgrace,” adding:

“This kind of mess at this level is hard to watch. His prestige at Real Madrid and in Spanish football will drop significantly. Every weekend there’s a problem — with opponents, with officials, with teammates. I don’t know what’s going on in his head, but this will damage his standing.”

Former Brazil striker Luis Fabiano echoed that view, saying:

“It’s totally wrong and a lack of respect. You can be angry, but you have to leave quietly and respect whoever is coming on.”

Ex-Real Madrid and Liverpool midfielder Steve McManaman also weighed in:

“It’s not about you — it’s about the team. It’s about beating Barcelona, going five points clear, and giving your coach his first Clasico win. We shouldn’t be talking about someone sulking after a substitution.”

Bellingham Also in the Spotlight

Madrid’s victory, sealed by goals from Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, was overshadowed further when Bellingham was accused of mocking Barcelona midfielder Pedri by referencing the controversial Negreira referee scandal. The Englishman was also caught making a lewd gesture toward fans — a repeat of the one that earned him a fine during Euro 2024.

Despite the controversy, Bellingham focused on the positives, saying:

“It’s a very important win. We all put in a huge effort — it was a magnificent performance from the whole team.”

Still, Madrid’s post-Clasico celebrations have been somewhat dampened by their two biggest stars finding themselves under scrutiny for all the wrong reasons.