Real Madrid Legend Slams Vinicius Junior: "You're Destroying the Entire Team"

Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has criticized Vinícius Júnior's conduct during matches, acknowledging that the Brazilian's "irritating" behavior had a detrimental impact on the squad previously.

Vinícius has frequently faced criticism for his demeanor and emotional outbursts while wearing the Madrid jersey. Whether it's disputing with referees, antagonizing opposition players and supporters, or openly challenging decisions from Xabi Alonso, the winger consistently finds himself embroiled in disputes.

Kroos, who shared the pitch with Vinícius across six campaigns at Real Madrid, witnessed firsthand the Brazilian's conduct and disclosed how it affected team dynamics.

"During those moments, I frequently reminded [Vinícius] that it was excessive, as it seemed the entire squad was suffering due to his actions," Kroos commented during an Icon League gathering.

"It's comprehensible that eventually he becomes frustrating, whether to opposition players, match officials, or rival supporters. As a collective, you sense that everything is now working against the group because of his actions."

Renowned for his calm demeanor and guidance on the field, Kroos attempted to help manage his former colleague's temperament for the club's benefit.

"I frequently attempted to settle him down during matches, primarily to prevent him from losing concentration, which occasionally occurred. I regularly told him: 'Vinícius, your talent is so exceptional you don't require that behavior at all.'"

The duo contributed to Real Madrid securing two Champions League trophies together before Kroos's retirement following the 2023–24 campaign. Subsequently, Vinícius has accumulated 19 yellow cards and one dismissal.

Franco Mastantuono Criticizes Vinícius Júnior's El Clásico Meltdown

Vinícius's most recent episode occurred during the season's opening Clásico when Alonso substituted him for Rodrygo in the 72nd minute. The Brazilian international became visibly upset on the field before marching directly to the tunnel, though he later returned to sit with his colleagues on the substitutes' bench.

The incident overshadowed Los Blancos' 2–1 triumph against Barcelona, prompting Vinícius to offer both private and public apologies to his teammates in subsequent days.

Franco Mastantuono acknowledged on El Larguero that Vinícius Júnior failed to manage the situation in the "proper manner," particularly since Real Madrid operates as "one unit" and should avoid "concentrating on personal displays."

Nevertheless, the Argentine recognized his teammate's apology and noted that the winger "creates happiness in the dressing room and remains eager to compete."