Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior is still getting backlash for his row with manager Xabi Alonso
Vinicius Junior may have apologised publicly after his emotional reaction to being substituted in El Clásico, but the fallout is far from over as criticism continues to pour in.
And this time, it comes from someone who knows the tension of Spanish football rivalries well, former Atlético Madrid captain Gabi Fernández, who has taken aim at the Real Madrid winger’s attitude and his recent statement.
Gabi calls out Vinicius for public apology
Speaking to Cadena SER, Gabi made it clear he wasn’t impressed with the 24-year-old’s behaviour, labelling his handling of the incident as self-centred.
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He argued that such situations should be dealt with internally rather than turning them into public spectacles.
According to Gabi, issuing a statement without directly mentioning head coach Xabi Alonso, the key figure in the episode, was a sign of disrespect, especially so early into a new managerial era.
“The gestures, the fuss, being tested in public… everything you want but behind closed doors,” Gabi stressed, insisting the collective should always come first unless, as he put it bluntly, “your name is Messi.”
Gabi shares further Vinicius frustrations
Gabi did not stop at the El Clásico drama as he also referenced Vinicius’ past remarks on Spain and racism, claiming the forward’s comments paint an unfair picture of the entire country.
“Every day we are all on trial for Vinicius, what is this?” he questioned, suggesting the Brazilian’s actions force constant scrutiny onto others.
For now, Real Madrid will hope the apology and private discussions help restore calm between Vinicius and Alonso, but the public criticism highlights an awkward truth: just weeks into the new era at the Bernabéu, the club is already managing internal turbulence.
