Real Madrid Icon Backs Vinicius Junior After Explosive El Clasico Performance
Toni Kroos came to the aid of his former Real Madrid colleague Vinícius Júnior following the Brazilian's disputed behavior during El Clásico.
Vinícius's reaction overshadowed Real Madrid's first triumph over Barcelona in more than twelve months. The forward departed the field clearly frustrated and headed directly to the tunnel after Xabi Alonso replaced him in the 72nd minute.
During his podcast, Einfach mal Luppen, Kroos shared his perspective on the incident.
"When you deliver an outstanding performance, particularly in a fixture like this, you're not pleased [about being withdrawn]," Kroos stated via MARCA. "I also never enjoyed being taken off. But honestly, I never marched straight to the changing room afterward."
"You can always assess from the sidelines. But I prefer to remember that, in truth, nobody apart from those present, in El Clásico, before 80,000 supporters, leading 2–1, understands that being substituted is the last thing you desire."
"That feeling, nobody who criticizes it afterward can truly comprehend it. Most of those who critique it [Vinícius' reaction] simply cannot place themselves in his position."
The iconic German playmaker also shared advice for his former colleague.
"After calming down and gaining perspective, he'll likely reflect, 'Perhaps I could have controlled my frustration better.' I can relate to it, but how it appears visually, it's not perfect. Nevertheless, I want to emphasize that it's an extraordinary emotional moment when you're involved in a match like that."
Kroos: Don't Overanalyze Everything
Despite reports suggesting tension between Vinícius and Alonso, Kroos thinks this situation won't create lasting issues within Real Madrid's squad.
"I've experienced it numerous times, you shouldn't always make mountains out of molehills. Coaches also prefer not to, particularly those who were former players themselves."
Alonso confirmed he'll discuss the matter with the Brazilian to resolve the situation, but also minimized the significance of the episode and expects no enduring complications.