What Did Simeone Say to Vinícius About Florentino Pérez at Real Madrid?
Brazilian forward Vinícius Jr. once again found himself at the center of controversy during the Spanish Super Cup semifinal, where Real Madrid defeated Atlético de Madrid 2–1. The winger was involved in tense verbal exchanges with Diego “Cholo” Simeone
Brazilian forward Vinícius Jr. once again found himself at the center of controversy during the Spanish Super Cup semifinal, where Real Madrid defeated Atlético de Madrid 2–1. The winger was involved in tense verbal exchanges with Diego “Cholo” Simeone, Atlético’s head coach, throughout the match.
Simeone Uses Florentino Pérez to Target Vinícius
Both Simeone and Vinícius were positioned on the same touchline, which increased the tension as the game progressed. The verbal clashes intensified to the point where fourth official Víctor García Verdura had to step in to calm the situation.
According to multiple reports in Spain, the Argentine coach directed a controversial remark at the Real Madrid player: “Florentino will kick you out — remember what I’m telling you,” referring to Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez.
Late in the match, the confrontation resurfaced when Simeone shouted at Vinícius, saying “Vini, listen, listen,” a comment linked to the boos the Brazilian received when he was substituted.
Simeone Avoids Controversy; Xabi Alonso Responds
After the match, Diego Simeone avoided fueling the controversy, claiming he did not recall the incident:
“I don’t remember. My memory is complicated,” the Atlético coach said when questioned.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso publicly defended Vinícius Jr. and criticized Simeone’s behavior: “I try to be respectful toward players from the opposing team and I usually don’t address them. When I heard what he said, I liked it even less. It’s not an example of good sportsmanship, and not everything goes. There has to be respect for the opponent, and what happens on the pitch has limits,” Alonso stated.
