Madrid Clásico Sparks Tension as Vinícius Jr. Apologizes and Barça Faces Injury Storm
31 October 2025
Clasico aftermath and Vinícius Jr.
Real Madrid sealed the Clasico win over their arch-rivals Barcelona last week in La Liga, but the match underscored the challenges facing both clubs as the league enters its eleventh round.
Vinícius Jr.'s heated reaction when substituted stood out as one of the bigger issues for coach Xabi Alonso, though the Brazilian quickly issued a public apology on Wednesday after Madrid's 2-1 win over Barça at the Santiago Bernabéu.
He was seen arguing with Alonso as he left in the 72nd minute when Rodrygo came on, before heading straight for the tunnel toward the locker rooms.
'I would like today to apologize to all Real Madrid fans for my reaction to the substitution. I would also like to apologize again to my teammates, the club and the president.'
Meanwhile, talks to extend his contract continue, though his current deal runs until 2027.
Vinícius has five goals this season so far, but Mbappé—now on 16 goals in 13 appearances across competitions—has drawn more attention after his 44 in all competitions in his first year with the club.
Madrid fans hope to mend the Alonso-Vinícius relationship without lingering issues as they chase the domestic title after last season's trophyless campaign.
That will be tested in the upcoming match against Valencia on Saturday, followed by a Champions League clash at Liverpool on Tuesday.
By clinching the Clasico, Madrid widened their lead to five points over Barça after ten rounds, a comfortable margin so early in the season.
— Drama on the bench and in the tunnel —
Barcelona's injury crisis and upcoming tests
On the other hand, Barcelona, under German coach Hansi Flick, looks to regain balance quickly when hosting Elche on Sunday.
The Catalan giants arrive with two defeats in their last three league games and a setback to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
In addition, star Pedri is out for weeks due to a thigh tear; Gavi and the German goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen are also sidelined, while Raphinha remains in rehab. Fortunately, Barcelona will welcome back Lewandowski and Dani Olmo after their return to training.
Meanwhile, Villarreal sit third and host Rayo Vallecano as they push to stay behind the two Spanish giants. Atlético Madrid visit Sevilla on Saturday, while Real Sociedad host Athletic Bilbao in the Basque derby at San Sebastián on Saturday as well.
Real Sociedad host Athletic Bilbao in the Basque derby on Saturday.
Madrid currently sit atop La Liga with a five-point cushion after ten rounds.
