Former Real Madrid star and coach Jorge Valdano has issued a stern warning to Vinicius Junior, labeling the forward’s public display of anger after being substituted as an “unhealthy” attitude that shows a lack of respect for the coach and his teammates.
The incident occurred during Real Madrid’s 2-0 La Liga victory over Espanyol on Saturday.
Manager Xabi Alonso decided to replace Vinicius in the 77th minute, a move that visibly frustrated the Brazilian star as he left the pitch.
Valdano, speaking on Movistar+, analyzed the situation, noting a significant shift at the club.
“Vinicius is not the same as he was, and the coach is not the same as he was,” Valdano stated.
He advised that the player must now “improve his level and then convince the coach”.
The former sporting director emphasized that public displays of frustration are damaging.
“These attitudes displayed in public are not healthy. They are not healthy in any case,” Valdano said.
He pointed out that while the club has historically supported Vinicius, especially during times he “fought against the world,” the dynamic changes when the anger is directed inward.
“Vinicius is no longer angry with the world, he is angry with his own coach, and the people at Real Madrid have always put the club before the player”.
Valdano concluded that such gestures also imply “a lack of respect for the player who is going to enter the field”.
Meanwhile, Alonso addressed the incident in his post-match press conference, downplaying the significance.
He acknowledged that Vinicius was substituted during a strong period of his game but explained the decision was tactical, aimed at bringing fresh legs onto the field to maintain control.
“He wasn’t very happy, but neither was Franco [Mastantuono],” Alonso said, adding that he was “very happy with Vinicius’s performance”.
The event highlights the new managerial era under Alonso, who has not repeated a starting lineup in the season’s first six matches, signaling increased competition for places.
