Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. insisted he “didn’t mean to offend anyone” following the heated scenes that unfolded after his team’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clasico.
The 25-year-old Brazilian showed visible frustration when he was replaced in the 72nd minute, heading straight to the dressing room before later returning to the bench. After the final whistle, Vinicius became involved in a tense exchange with Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal, prompting a wider scuffle between players from both sides.
Vinicius was among five players booked for their part in the confrontation, while goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, who did not feature in the game, received a red card.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV, Vinicius said, “El Clasico is always intense. There are many emotions during the match and beyond. We didn’t want to insult anyone — not Barca’s players or supporters. When we play, we defend our colors, and that’s what happened.”
Tensions between the two sides had been building after Yamal’s comments earlier in the week accusing Real Madrid of “stealing” and “complaining”. Following the win, Jude Bellingham, who scored the decisive goal, responded on social media, saying: “Talk is cheap. Hala Madrid always.”
Alonso addresses Vinicius’s remarks
Reports in Spain have recently suggested that Real Madrid could consider selling Vinicius if a significant offer arrived, with his contract discussions currently stalled. His existing deal expires at the end of next season, leaving uncertainty about his future.
During the game, broadcast footage from DAZN caught Vinicius muttering in frustration: “Always me! I’m leaving the team! It’s better if I go!” — words that raised eyebrows among supporters and pundits.
Head coach Xabi Alonso, when asked about the player’s reaction, played down the incident. “I prefer to focus on the many positives from the match and from Vini himself,” Alonso said. “We’ll discuss what happened privately.”
The Real boss also dismissed the post-match confrontation as part of football’s natural intensity. “It’s something that happens,” he said. “Moments like that occur when the pressure is high — it’s part of the game.”
Carvajal faces new knee surgery
In separate news, Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal will undergo surgery on his right knee, potentially ruling him out for the remainder of the year.
The 33-year-old defender has featured in seven of Madrid’s ten league fixtures this season, appearing as a substitute in the second half of El Clasico. However, scans revealed a loose body in his knee, requiring arthroscopic surgery, the club confirmed on Monday.
It marks another setback for the Spanish veteran, who missed much of last season after tearing two ligaments and a tendon in the same knee. Real Madrid issued a statement saying: “Following tests carried out on our captain Dani Carvajal by the club’s medical services, he has been diagnosed with a loose body in his right knee. Carvajal will undergo arthroscopic surgery.”
