Vinicius Jr Apologizes for Reaction to Substitution in El Clasico
Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr has issued an apology to fans following his reaction to being substituted during Sunday's intense El Clasico against Barcelona.
Vinicius was substituted in the 72nd minute and showed his frustration by heading directly down the tunnel.
After returning to the bench, he was involved in a confrontational moment with Barcelona's Lamine Yamal amid unsavory post-match events following his team's 2-1 victory.
"Today I want to apologize to all the Madridistas for my reaction when I was substituted in the Clasico," Vinicius posted on X. "Just as I have already done in person during today’s training, I also want to apologize 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 nature comes from the love I have for this club and everything it represents."
Vinicius joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018 for £38.7 million and has netted 111 goals in 335 appearances. However, speculation about his future at the club has arisen, with reports suggesting that Real Madrid may consider selling the 25-year-old if a suitable offer is made.
During his substitution on Sunday, cameras from broadcaster Dazn captured Vinicius saying, "Always me! I’m leaving the team! It’s better if I leave, I’m leaving." In his latest statement on X, he reaffirmed, "I promise to keep fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since the first day."