Article by Aurelian Botezatu – Published on Tuesday, 04 November 2025, 07:45 / Updated on Tuesday, 04 November 2025 07:46
His former great striker real madridJorge Valdano (70), criticized Vinicius ahead of the match at “Anfield Road” with Liverpool.
With his “abrasive” attitude, Vinicius jr “won” many challengers. Including at Real Madrid! The most virulent lately is Jorge Valdano. Former great attacker of the white team, the Argentine attacked the Brazilian player again.
Jorge Valdano accuses Vinicius of selfishness
The context? In Saturday's game against Valencia (4-0), regular penalty taker Kylian Mbappé (26) allowed his team-mate Vinicius to take his second penalty after he himself had put Real Madrid ahead from the penalty spot. But “Vini” was unable to convert, his shot being parried by Valencia goalkeeper Agirrezabala.
Without mentioning Vinicius' name, Valdano subtly accused the Brazilian of selfishness. “Confidence and camaraderie play a role on the pitch, as does the desire to be a team…” said the former Real Madrid sporting director (2003-2009).
Valdano pointed out that Mbappé should take priority for another reason: “At the moment, Mbappé is clearly the one fighting for the Golden Ice and the goal scorer.” Therefore, for Vinicius, this must mean: take a step back!
Xabi Alonso on Vinicius jr's attitude: “These things can happen but we don't want them to happen again”
Coach Xabi Alonso had in turn criticized the fact that Mbappe had let Vinicius take the second penalty: “Vini missed, it could have been 3-0. That bothered me. Fortunately, Jude Bellingham scored later.”
But ahead of today's game with Liverpool, Xabi made it clear that he has forgiven the Brazilian for everything that has happened recently, including his inappropriate behavior during El Clasico when he protested vehemently at being substituted.
“For me it was important to discuss it on Friday, it was resolved. These things can happen, but we don't want it to happen again. It was resolved. As for the penalties, we have decided that Kylian Mbappe is the first taker, including against Liverpool, if necessary,” said the Real Madrid coach.
