Real Madrid once again got the better of Barcelona in El Clásico, earning a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabéu thanks to goals from Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham — a result that puts them five points clear at the top of LaLiga. However, the impressive victory was partly overshadowed by another emotional outburst from Vinícius Jr., who didn’t hide his frustration after being substituted for Rodrygo in the 72nd minute.

A gesture that didn’t go unnoticed

The Brazilian forward reacted with clear anger upon seeing his number on the substitution board while Madrid pushed for a third goal. Gesturing in disbelief toward the bench, Vinícius left the pitch without greeting Xabi Alonso and walked straight into the tunnel, initially refusing to sit with his teammates. Moments later, he returned to the bench to watch the tense ending, which included a scuffle between players from both sides.

During those heated final moments, Vinícius was once again in the spotlight — clashing with Alejandro Balde, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha before being restrained by coaching staff as Alonso tried to calm the situation.

“We’ll enjoy the win first, then we’ll talk”

After the match, the Spanish coach addressed the situation with composure, confirming he will speak privately with his player while downplaying any suggestion of internal conflict.

“Vini’s character? Every dressing room has different personalities. Right now, we’ll enjoy the victory — later, we’ll have a conversation, for sure.”

Alonso acknowledged Vinícius’s frustration, explaining that his decision to substitute him was tactical rather than disciplinary.

“The only thing Vinícius was missing tonight was a goal. He felt good and wanted to continue, but we needed fresh legs to maintain control. He wasn’t happy, but that happens to every player.”

A recurring pattern

This isn’t the first time Vinícius Jr. has shown his temper after being substituted this season. He reacted similarly in the win over Espanyol, throwing a bottle to the ground and arguing with the staff. His status as an undisputed starter has also come into question recently, having started on the bench in the Champions League opener against Marseille and in league games against Getafe and Oviedo.

Even so, Alonso praised the Brazilian’s effort and commitment, reminding that the team’s intense schedule requires full cooperation and rotation.

“I’m very happy with his performances. The schedule is tough, and we have to keep moving forward.”

As the dust settles on another heated Clásico, Xabi Alonso’s management will once again be put to the test — balancing Vinícius’s fiery personality with the unity of a team that remains firmly in control of LaLiga.