Vinícius Apologises; Contract Talks Paused

Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu in the Clasico, with Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham among key contributors. Vinícius Júnior erupted after being substituted in the 72nd–73rd minute by Xabi Alonso, questioned the decision, stormed down the tunnel, later returned to the bench, was involved in a late post-match melee and received a booking. He posted a public apology on X to fans, teammates, the club and president—saying passion got the better of him—but did not name Alonso; the club held internal talks and confirmed there would be no formal sanctions. Alonso called the apology “valuable, positive,” said the matter was closed and affirmed there would be no punishment, even as multiple reports say the player-coach relationship has been strained and Vinícius has been substituted more often under Alonso. Previously advanced contract-extension talks reportedly worth around €18m a year to 2030 have been paused while the club reviews its sporting picture after Mbappé’s arrival, though both sides say negotiations are not dead. Vinícius is available for selection, but his dressing-room standing and long-term future at the club remain under scrutiny.