Vinicius Junior Delivers Another Blow to Xabi Alonso with Explosive Statement
Real Madrid striker Vinícius Júnior issued an apology to all parties except head coach Xabi Alonso in a statement intended to calm the storm created by his weekend behavior, but this has only reinforced reports of significant internal discord.
Vinícius angrily departed when substituted during the second half of Sunday's Clásico triumph against Barcelona. The Brazilian was reportedly heard yelling: "Always me! I'm departing the squad! I'm going, I should leave!"
This triggered widespread speculation indicating that Vinícius was preparing to exit the Spanish capital. The unpredictable attacker attempted to minimize these rumors with a declaration of his devotion to the club and supporters, yet his public statement conspicuously omitted any mention of the manager he brushed past on Sunday.
"Today I wish to apologize to all Madridistas for my behavior when substituted in El Clásico," Vinícius posted on X. "Just as I have already done face-to-face during today's practice, I also wish to apologize once more to my colleagues, the club, and the president.
"Sometimes emotion overwhelms me because I constantly desire to succeed and assist my team. My fighting spirit comes from the affection I have for this club and all it stands for.
"I pledge to continue battling every moment for Real Madrid's benefit, as I have since day one."
Xabi Alonso Conflicts Extend Beyond Vinicius—Report
Vinícius might be involved in the most visible dispute with Alonso, but the new Real Madrid coach is hardly beloved across the board, according to The Athletic. Multiple anonymous players, described as "major stars" are reportedly "frustrated," "disrespected and unhappy" with the former Bayer Leverkusen manager.
The primary grievances appear centered on the cultural divide between Alonso and Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian might have been Alonso's previous boss, but the Spanish manager has allegedly embraced a micromanaging style which has apparently limited players' tactical autonomy.
The manager is characterized as "cold and inaccessible," while numerous sources allegedly offered the same harsh evaluation: "He believes he's Pep Guardiola."
It's not entirely negative for Alonso. There hasn't been any public criticism of the Basque manager from Madrid's roster, with multiple players praising the more involved methodology from the 43-year-old. As with any conflict in the Spanish capital, performance will be the deciding factor. After propelling Real Madrid five points ahead of Barcelona following Sunday's Clásico victory, Alonso has some relief—temporarily.