Former Chelsea midfielder Craig Burley has criticised Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior for his conduct towards manager Xabi Alonso during their 2-1 El Clásico victory over Barcelona last weekend.
Vinicius, who was substituted in the 72nd minute, appeared visibly upset and stormed off the pitch before later returning to the bench — a move Burley described as unsportsmanlike and disrespectful.
Speaking during an interview, Burley said the Brazilian’s behaviour showed a lack of maturity and respect for his manager.
“It is difficult as a player because sometimes you just cannot see the bigger picture, which is that Real Madrid needed fresh legs,” Burley noted.
“You don’t walk down the tunnel when a Clasico is still on against your biggest rivals. Yes, he came back out, but Alonso didn’t look best pleased. I don’t think this player will ever change from this type of behaviour.”
Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham scoring for the hosts.
