12 hours ago
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Vinicius Jr. excluded Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso from his apology, further fuelling their ongoing disagreement. The Brazilian issued a comprehensive statement to Madrid fans on Wednesday following his outburst during the match against Barcelona.
He was incensed after being substituted by Liverpool icon Alonso, who persuaded Trent Alexander-Arnold to leave Anfield for Spain during the summer, and was reported to have exclaimed: "Me, it's always me, I'm leaving the team, it's better that I go."
He was also seen heading straight down the tunnel without acknowledging his manager. Days after his heated reaction, Vinicius took to social media and stated: "Today I want to apologize to all the Madridistas for my reaction when I was substituted in the Clasico.
"Just as I have already done in person during today's training, I also want to apologize 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.
"I promise to keep fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since the first day."
Supporters noticed that Alonso was conspicuously absent from the apology, and it has now been claimed that his omission was deliberate. According to The Athletic, the Brazilian winger intentionally left out Alonso after feeling "hurt" by the treatment he's received from the Madrid boss.
While Vinicius is reportedly upset with his manager, it's understood that he has felt supported by the club.
However, it's been suggested that Madrid's top brass are not particularly pleased with the situation, having been left dissatisfied with their star winger's reaction and Alonso's management of the player.
It's also reported that a fine is on the way for Vinicius.
Despite this, all involved will undoubtedly hope for a resolution in the coming days.
Madrid will be looking to increase its lead at the top of La Liga this weekend as it faces Valencia at the Santiago Bernabeu. They'll then head to Liverpool for Champions League action next week.
Manager Alonso is set to speak publicly for the first time on Friday ahead of the match against Valencia.
Vinicius has had another successful season so far with Madrid, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 10 appearances across all competitions. The 25-year-old scored 22 goals and provided an additional 19 assists last season.
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