By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Vinicius Junior has issued an apology over his outburst towards Xabi Alonso during Real Madrid’s 2-1 win against Barcelona on Sunday.
The Brazilian left the pitch visibly upset, ignored his coach’s handshake, and headed straight to the locker room. A few minutes later, he returned to the bench—but by then, the controversy had already erupted.
It is understood that the relationship between Alonso and Vinicius is strained following the incident but the winger has now said sorry for his reaction towards Madrid’s head coach during the game.
“Today I want to apologise 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 apologise again to my team-mates, 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.”
Vinicius joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018 for £38.7m and has scored 111 goals in 335 appearances.
Madrid are now five points clear at the top of La Liga following Sunday’s win. They play at home to Valencia on Saturday.
Meanwhile Real Madrid welcomed the decision of the Audiencia Provincial dismissing the appeals formulated by UEFA, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and LaLiga.
In a statement the club said, “the ruling confirms UEFA seriously breached European Union competition law in the Super League case, in line with the ruling of the CJEU, by abusing their dominant position.
“This judgment paves the way for substantial claims to compensate for the damages suffered by the club.
“Real Madrid also reports that throughout 2025 extensive discussions have been held with senior UEFA officials to find ways to achieve necessary reforms, no agreement has been reached regarding more transparent governance, financial sustainability, protection of players’ health, and improvements to the fan experience, including free and globally accessible viewing options such as those used for the FIFA Club World Cup, added the club.”