Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior has issued a public apology to fans after his angry reaction to being substituted during Sunday’s heated El Clásico victory over Barcelona, with that outburst briefly overshadowing his side’s dramatic 2-1 win at the Bernabéu.
The Brazilian forward was withdrawn in the 72nd minute and appeared visibly frustrated, heading straight down the tunnel while muttering angrily to himself.
Cameras from broadcaster DAZN captured the 25-year-old saying: “Always me! I’m leaving the team! It’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.”
His reaction quickly sparked discussion among supporters and pundits, raising fresh questions about his temperament and future at the club.
Vinícius later returned to the bench before becoming involved in tense post-match scenes, where he was seen attempting to confront Barcelona’s teenage winger Lamine Yamal.
Security staff and teammates intervened to diffuse the situation, with both clubs later calling for calm after what had been a fiery encounter.
On Monday, the winger took to social media to express regret over his behaviour.
Vinicius Jr was visibly angry at the end of Real Madrid's 2-1 win over Barcelona
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Vinicius Jr and Real Madrid will be hoping to achieve more success this year
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“Today I want to apologise to all the Madridistas for my reaction when I was substituted in the Clásico,” Vinícius wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“Just as I have already done in person during today’s training, I also want to apologise again to my teammates, the club, and the president.
“Sometimes passion gets the better of me because I always want to win and help my team. My competitive character stems from the love I feel for this club and everything it represents.”
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Jude Bellingham scored the winner as Real Madrid beat Barcelona on Sunday
| REUTERSHe added a pledge to remain committed to the cause, insisting that his emotions were born from a desire to perform at his best.
“I promise to keep fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since the first day,” he concluded.
The apology comes at a delicate time for the forward, whose relationship with both management and supporters has faced scrutiny in recent months.
Despite being one of Real Madrid’s most influential players since joining from Flamengo in 2018 for £38.7million, reports in Spain have suggested that the club could be open to offers should a substantial bid arrive.
Vinícius has scored 111 goals in 335 appearances for Real Madrid, establishing himself as a key figure under a variety of different managers and a crucial component in the club’s domestic and European success in recent years.
His flair and intensity have made him a fan favourite, but his fiery temperament has occasionally led to controversy both on and off the pitch.
Vinicius Jr and his Real Madrid teammates celebrate their win over Barcelona
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Sunday’s incident was not the first time the Brazilian’s passion has boiled over during high-stakes fixtures.
Yet those close to the player insist his frustration stems from ambition rather than dissent, pointing to his relentless drive to succeed at the highest level.
Real Madrid officials have reportedly accepted Vinícius’s apology, with the club keen to move forward and maintain focus on upcoming fixtures as the team continues its pursuit of another La Liga title.
Vinicius could feature when Los Blancos lock horns with Valencia on Saturday (8pm).
Real's win over Barcelona means they're currently five points clear of their rivals at the top of LaLiga.
Villarreal sit in third, seven points back, with Atletico Madrid fourth with a tally of 19 to their name.