Still no apology to Alonso? Vinicius Jr to escape punishment for Clasico petulance
The Brazil winger has received criticism for his reaction on Sunday
Xabi Alonso says Vinicius Jr won’t face any punishment for his petulant reaction to being substituted in the Clasico and insists the matter is closed – although the Real Madrid boss refused to confirm if the winger has apologised to him directly.
Vinicius was taken off in the 72nd minute of Madrid’s 2-1 win over Barcelona last Sunday but made his displeasure obvious, mouthing “I’m leaving this team” before going straight down the tunnel.
The Brazil international released a statement on Wednesday in which he apologised to “all Madridistas, team-mates, the club, and the president” but did not mention Alonso.
Speaking ahead of Madrid’s game with Valencia tomorrow, Alonso said it was time to move on.
Asked if Vinicius had apologised to him, Alonso said: “On Wednesday after the two days of rest we had a meeting. Vini was impeccable, he spoke from the heart and I was satisfied. For me, it’s settled.”
Alonso was also asked about Vinicius’ statement, adding: “It was a very valuable statement, very positive. He showed his honesty, he spoke from the heart. The most important thing is what he said and I was very satisfied. Since Wednesday the topic was closed.
“There will be no punishment.”
Time for Madrid to maintain focus – Alonso
Madrid have had a rare midweek off and now, with a five-point gap at the top of the table, it is time to focus on Valencia.
“Before the Clasico we discussed the fact the game had more value,” said Alonso. “For the team’s confidence, a victory of that size was important. But it’s time to forget it. We have to continue facing each game. When we lower that preparation a little, we will lose points. And we don’t want that to happen.”
Kylian Mbappe was the star of the Clasico with a brilliant performance and Alonso recognises it is difficult to manage the minutes of a player who is so important to Madrid and France.
He said: “I’m always worried, not to squeeze the players too much. You also have to know the efforts, the demands. There are times when you have to manage those moments. With Kylian, so far it has been like this, but we will see for the future.”