Overview
- Vinícius reacted angrily to being substituted in the 72nd minute of El Clásico, went down the tunnel, returned to the bench, and was booked in a post-match melee.
- Multiple outlets report Madrid will not fine or formally discipline him and will leave the issue to Xabi Alonso to address internally, with talks expected as training resumes, and Toni Kroos publicly expressed understanding of the player’s emotions.
- Cadena SER and others say the working relationship between Alonso and Vinícius is badly strained, with some characterizations that there is currently no relationship.
- Under Alonso this season, Vinícius has been rotated more often — left out of the XI three times and completing only a few full matches — which has reduced his on-field prominence.
- ESPN reports renewal negotiations have stalled over bonus demands, and AS and SER report the winger is seriously considering a summer exit if his status does not improve.