Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has spoken out following growing speculation about his future at the Santiago Bernabéu, amid links to Manchester United and Chelsea.
The Brazilian international has had a mixed start to the season under new manager Xabi Alonso. Although his performances have not been as explosive as in previous campaigns, Vinícius has still produced a solid return — scoring five goals and providing four assists in 13 appearances across all competitions. However, Alonso’s rotation policy and frequent substitutions have left the winger frustrated, sparking rumours of tension between the player and the coach.
One of the key flashpoints came during Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Barcelona in El Clásico, when Vinícius was substituted in the 72nd minute. The 24-year-old appeared visibly upset, caught by cameras shouting at Alonso, “Me? Me? Gaffer, gaffer! Me?” as he left the pitch. His anger didn’t end there — he stormed down the tunnel and was overheard saying, “It’s always me, I’m leaving the team. I’m leaving, I’d better leave.” Moments later, Vinícius returned to the pitch area and became involved in a heated altercation with Lamine Yamal, sparking a brief scuffle between both sets of players and staff.
Following widespread criticism of his reaction, Vinícius issued a public apology on Wednesday afternoon. In his statement, he admitted his behaviour was out of line and expressed remorse to fans, teammates, and the club hierarchy. He said:
> “Today I want to apologise to all the Madridistas for my reaction when I was substituted in the Clasico. Just as I have already done in person during today’s training, I also want to apologise again to my teammates, the club, and the president.”
He added that his emotions sometimes get the best of him because of his deep passion for the club:
> “Sometimes passion gets the better of me because I always want to win and help my team. My competitive character stems from the love I feel for this club and everything it represents. I promise to keep fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since the first day.”
Despite his apology, reports from The Sun suggest that Vinícius believes the relationship between himself and Alonso may now be beyond repair, and he is considering an exit from Madrid. The outlet also claims that Manchester United view the Brazilian as a potential marquee signing to demonstrate their intent to return to the top.
Transfer journalist Graeme Bailey has added that Chelsea are another club monitoring the situation closely. Speaking to The Chelsea Chronicle, Bailey revealed that Vinícius is on Chelsea’s “radar” and remains “one to keep an eye on” given his uncertain contract situation. The forward reportedly has just 18 months remaining on his current deal, and Real Madrid are said to have informed him that if he does not agree to an extension by next summer, the club will look to sell him.
Bailey also emphasized that Vinícius has no interest in moving to Saudi Arabia, meaning his next destination — if he leaves — would likely be among Europe’s elite. According to the journalist, the only realistic Premier League destinations for him would be Chelsea, Manchester City, or Liverpool, adding further intrigue to what could become one of the biggest transfer sagas of the coming year.
