Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has publicly defended Vinícius Júnior following a tense verbal confrontation with Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone during the Spanish Super Cup semifinal.
Real Madrid secured a 2–1 victory over Atlético Madrid, booking their place in the Super Cup final, where they will face arch-rivals Barcelona in a decisive El Clásico with a trophy on the line. However, the match was marked by intense tension from the opening minutes, with one of the flashpoints involving Vinícius Jr and Simeone on the touchline.
According to COPE, the Argentine coach directed a provocative remark at the Brazilian winger, allegedly telling him:
“Florentino Pérez will get rid of you. Remember my words.”
The exchange added fuel to an already heated encounter, with emotions running high throughout the match.
After the game, Alonso addressed the incident during his press conference and made it clear he was unhappy with Simeone’s behavior, placing the blame firmly on the Atlético coach.
“I didn’t like that moment,” Alonso said. “Cholo said something to him, and those kinds of comments go against the spirit you should have toward players.”
He continued:
“I don’t like it when players are spoken to in that way. Not everything is acceptable.”
Alonso’s comments underline Real Madrid’s firm support for Vinícius Jr, who has often found himself at the center of controversy in high-stakes clashes. With the Super Cup final against Barcelona looming, the incident has only added extra spice to an already explosive footballing rivalry.
