Ancelotti Slams Vinicius Junior's El Clasico Behavior as 'Mistake' in Shocking Post-Match Verdict
Carlo Ancelotti disclosed that he had a conversation with Vinícius Júnior following the Brazilian's heated reaction during El Clásico and criticized the Real Madrid star's conduct.
Vinícius Júnior became visibly frustrated when Xabi Alonso substituted him for Rodrygo in the 72nd minute during the match against Barcelona on Sunday, Oct. 26. The forward angrily left the field and headed straight to the tunnel before eventually coming back to the bench to witness Los Blancos secure a 2–1 win.
This episode led former Real Madrid manager Ancelotti to contact Vinícius Júnior, whom he selected for Brazil's forthcoming November fixtures against Senegal and Tunisia.
"We maintain a strong relationship with Vinícius as we do with our other players," Ancelotti stated. "I discussed the situation with Vinícius, I shared my thoughts with him, explaining that his reaction was inappropriate.
"He acknowledged his error and offered an apology. I consider the matter closed. He remains a crucial player for our team. His contribution will be invaluable to us."
Vinícius Júnior subsequently delivered both a private and public apology to Real Madrid regarding his conduct at the Santiago Bernabéu. Alonso later expressed that he was "extremely pleased" with the player's response.
"He faces no issues here or at his club, or with his manager [Xabi Alonso]. Regarding his private matters, that's his business—I'm neither his parent nor sibling, merely his coach," Ancelotti concluded.
Ancelotti, Vinícius Júnior Aiming to Guide Brazil to World Cup Success
Despite the controversy involving Vinícius Júnior and Alonso this campaign, the former has almost returned to his peak performance level. The Brazil striker has accumulated 11 goal contributions in 2025–26, appearing once more like the talent who was considered a Ballon d'Or contender just last season.
Two of those offensive contributions occurred while representing the Seleção during the October international window.
Vinícius Júnior scored once and provided an assist in Brazil's commanding 5–0 victory against South Korea.
Across the four matches the 25-year-old has featured for his nation under Ancelotti's guidance, he has netted twice and created one goal. While these statistics may not be spectacular, Vinícius Júnior had previously scored just six times in 39 international appearances for Brazil.
Ancelotti aims to maintain consistent output from his key winger leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Seleção hopes to deliver a superior showing compared to their consecutive quarterfinal eliminations in 2018 and 2022.