Overview
- Toni Kroos said Vinícius’ gestures and confrontations can be “annoying” and give the sense the team “ends up suffering,” in remarks quoted by AS.
- He explained he repeatedly tried to calm the forward during games to protect Real Madrid’s rhythm and urged him that he is “so good” he does not need the extra theatrics.
- Vinícius drew scrutiny after reacting angrily to being substituted against Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabéu, then apologized to fans three days later on X.
- The apology did not mention coach Xabi Alonso, with reports describing a strained relationship following the El Clásico incident.
- Kroos delivered his comments at The Icon League event; despite criticism, Vinícius has five goals and four assists in La Liga this season, and Real Madrid return to league play at Elche this weekend.