'I apologise for my reaction': Vinicius Junior beaks silence after heated conduct in El Clasico

Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior has apologised to Real Madrid and its supporters following his angry reaction to being substituted during the side’s 2-1 win over Barcelona in the El Clasico on Sunday. The forward, who was replaced by Rodrygo in the 72nd minute, reacted visibly on the touchline and was seen heading straight down the tunnel after exchanging words with coach Xabi Alonso. He later returned to the sidelines before the final whistle. On Tuesday, the 25-year-old addressed the incident with a statement expressing regret for his behaviour. “Today I want to apologise to all Madrid fans for my reaction to being substituted in the Clasico. Just as I have already done it in person during today's training, I also want to apologise again to my teammates, club and president,” Vinicius said. He admitted that emotions had taken over in the heat of the moment. “Sometimes passion gets the better of me by always wanting to win and help my team. My competitive nature is born from the love I feel for this club and for everything it represents,” he added. Vinicius also reaffirmed his commitment to the club and its values. “I promise to continue fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since day one,” he said. Alonso, speaking after the game, had played down the episode, saying the matter would be handled internally within the dressing room. The Brazilian’s reaction came during a tense contest at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Madrid secured a narrow victory over their arch-rivals. Vinicius was also involved in a brief confrontation with Lamine Yamal late in the match as tempers flared. The win extended Real Madrid’s strong start to the season, though Vinicius’s apology now appears to have drawn a line under the brief moment of controversy.