Xabi Alonso and Vinicius Junior’s relationship at Real Madrid is said to be deteriorating quickly
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. has publicly apologised for his heated reaction after being substituted during El Clasico against Barcelona, but fans quickly noticed one glaring omission in his statement: there was no mention of manager Xabi Alonso.
The 25-year-old Brazilian, who stormed off the pitch straight to the tunnel while shouting in frustration, has now found himself at the centre of another controversy despite his apology.
Alonso’s name missing in Vinicius’ apology
Following his emotional outburst, Vinicius took to social media to express remorse for his actions, addressing his teammates, club officials, and the fans.
Hoy quiero pedir disculpas a todos los madridistas por mi reacción al ser sustituido en el Clásico.
Así como ya lo he hecho en persona durante el entrenamiento de hoy, también quiero pedir disculpas nuevamente a mis compañeros, club y presidente.
A veces la pasión me gana por…
— Vini Jr. (@vinijr) October 29, 2025
“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.”
⚡️Xabi Alonso’s omission from Vinicius’ apology message has been deliberate, as the player feels hurt by the treatment he is receiving from the coach
➕Those close to the player say they have felt the club’s support in recent days@TheAthleticFC https://t.co/JDtx3hf3Tg
— Mario Cortegana (@MarioCortegana) October 29, 2025
However, Alonso’s name was notably missing from the message, a detail that didn’t go unnoticed. According to The Athletic’s Mario Cortegana, the omission was intentional. Vinicius reportedly feels disappointed by Alonso’s treatment of him this season, having been substituted in 11 of 18 matches and rarely allowed to complete the full 90 minutes.
Underlying tension between player and manager
Sources close to the club suggest Vinicius’ exclusion of Alonso was a deliberate signal of ongoing tension. The Brazilian has started from the bench three times and seen his number raised for substitution on seven occasions before the 75th minute, including in the recent Clasico, where frustration boiled over.
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Although Real Madrid decided not to impose any fines, senior officials are said to be displeased with both the player’s reaction and Alonso’s handling of the situation.
Vinicius Junior and Xabi Alonso (Credit: Imago)
Vinicius Junior and Xabi Alonso greet each other during Real Madrid’s Club World Cup match (Credit: Imago)
The apology may have calmed the public storm, but behind the scenes, it appears the relationship between star forward and manager remains strained.
All eyes will now turn to Alonso’s upcoming press conference before Madrid’s clash with Valencia, where the issue is certain to dominate discussion.
