Vinicius Jr. was among six players cautioned following heated exchanges at the conclusion of El Clasico.
Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. has stated he “didn’t want to offend anyone” after a confrontation involving himself and teammates with Barcelona players following their victory in Sunday’s El Clasico.
The Brazilian forward, 25, displayed visible frustration upon being substituted in the 72nd minute, immediately heading towards the tunnel.
He later returned to the Real Madrid bench and, after his side’s 2-1 triumph, attempted to confront Barcelona’s 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal amidst unsavory post-match scenes.
Vinicius Jr. was one of five players who received yellow cards for their involvement in the incident, while Real Madrid’s substitute goalkeeper, Andriy Lunin, was shown a red card.
“El Clasico is like that,” Vinicius Jr. told Real Madrid TV. “There are many things happening on and off the pitch.
“We try to maintain a balance, but it’s not always possible. We didn’t want to offend anyone, not Barca players, nor the fans.
“We know that when we step onto the pitch, we have to defend our side, and that’s how it was today.”
Lamine Yamal had previously angered the Real Madrid players by suggesting last week that Real Madrid ‘steal’ and ‘complain’.
Following his winning goal at the Bernabeu on Sunday, Real Madrid’s England midfielder Jude Bellingham stated on Instagram:, external “Talk is cheap. Hala Madrid always.”
Real Madrid impress but Vinicius tension grows – Clasico talking points
This video can not be played
Bellingham shines as Real Madrid beat Barcelona
Recent reports suggest that Los Blancos would consider offers for Vinicius Jr. if a suitable bid were to be made.
At the end of this season, the FIFA Best men’s player of the year will have one year remaining on his contract, with renewal negotiations reportedly stalled.
When Vinicius Jr. was substituted on Sunday, broadcaster Dazn’s cameras captured the Brazilian saying: “Always me! I’m leaving the team! It’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.”
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso responded by stating: “I focus on a lot of positive things in the game, and positive things from Vini. We’ll talk about [his reaction], of course.”
Regarding the post-match altercations, Alonso commented: “I interpret it with normality. We don’t have to make too much of it.
“It’s the tension of the moment, for them and us. These scuffles have always happened.”
Vinicius Jr wants new Real deal amid Saudi interest
‘Real would not be scared to sell Vinicius’
In related news, Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal is set to undergo surgery on his right knee and may be sidelined for the remainder of the year.
The 33-year-old Spaniard has featured in seven of Real Madrid’s ten La Liga matches this season, making a substitute appearance during El Clasico.
This injury setback follows a previous incident a year ago, where he ruptured two ligaments and a tendon in the same knee, keeping him out for a significant portion of the last season.
“Following tests carried out on our captain Dani Carvajal by Real Madrid’s medical services, he has been diagnosed with a loose body in his right knee. Carvajal will undergo arthroscopic surgery,” Real Madrid stated on Monday.
Listen to the latest Football Daily podcast