Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly “given up” on Vinicius Jr. as the Brazilian won’t follow his orders amid disciplinary issues.
…Vinicius booked for dissent against Alaves
…Talked back again after being subbed off
…Ancelotti vexed with Brazilian’s short temper
WHAT HAPPENED?
According to Sport, Ancelotti has grown frustrated with Vinicius consistently ignoring his advice to maintain composure on the pitch and remain calm even if decisions do not go in his favour. In the 2024-25 La Liga season, the forward has already accumulated three yellow cards in just seven matches for his protests against the referee’s decisions. Even during the latest victory against Alaves, Vinicius was shown a yellow card in the 29th minute for protests.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
In the same match against Alaves, Luka Modric received a warning for dissent, marking a notable deviation from his usually exemplary conduct. Such behaviour within the team is worrying for Ancelotti, who has always placed a high emphasis on discipline and professionalism. The situation has reached a point where nine yellow cards have been shown to Real Madrid players this season alone for dissent.
WHAT ANCELOTTI SAID
Ancelotti, who has previously defended the young Brazilian, is reportedly at his wit’s end. He had allegedly held talks with the player in a personal capacity to address the issue but despite these efforts, Vinicius seems uninterested in changing his ways, continuing to protest during matches and putting himself at risk of further disciplinary action.
Speaking at a post-match press conference following the Alaves game, Ancelotti said: “Regulation has changed and we have to get used to this. We have to avoid the protests and period. It’s not fair or unfair, we have to adapt to this and that’s it.”
It is reported that his team-mates have also grown tired of his behaviour. Real Madrid had been concerned with this trait for a long time and even hired a psychologist to work with him. However, those attempts have failed to yield results as the player continues to get provocated in tense situations.
DID YOU KNOW?
Had Vinicius been shown a second yellow card during the Alaves match, he would have been suspended for Real Madrid’s crucial derby clash against city rivals Atletico Madrid. This would have been a significant blow to the team, particularly with Kylian Mbappe already sidelined due to a muscle injury.
WHAT NEXT FOR VINICIUS?
Vinicius’ behaviour on the pitch has not only concerned the coaching staff but also sections of the fanbase. Calls for his potential transfer to Saudi Arabia have begun to circulate, reflecting the growing discontent. Moreover, it was reported that Florentino Perez, the club’s president, was displeased with Vinicius’ comments about stripping Spain from hosting the 2030 World Cup due to rampant racism as the final of the tournament is projected to take place at the newly renovated Santiago Bernabeu.
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