Overview
- Vinícius Júnior reacted angrily to his 77th‑minute substitution against Espanyol, throwing a water bottle and briefly heading to the dressing room before returning to the bench.
- Post‑match footage showed Vinícius initially avoiding a discussion with Xabi Alonso on the pitch before reluctantly engaging, drawing sharp criticism from club legend Jorge Valdano, who called such behavior unhealthy.
- Alonso defended the change by saying the match demanded fresh legs and conceded the player might have been in his best phase at that moment, while publicly downplaying any fallout.
- The Brazilian has been repeatedly substituted this season and was benched for the Champions League opener against Marseille after being told not to take offense.
- Spanish outlet Onda Cero reports that Vinícius is seeking salary parity with Kylian Mbappé in renewal talks, as Real Madrid remain perfect with five wins from five in LaLiga.