MADRID – The simmering tension between Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. And Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone boiled over once more during Sunday’s Madrid derby at the Santiago Bernabéu, a match Real Madrid won 3-2. The latest chapter in their contentious relationship unfolded as Vinicius, having just scored a crucial brace, appeared to taunt Simeone while being substituted in the 87th minute. The incident, captured by Movistar Plus+ Deportes cameras, has reignited a feud that began earlier this year and underscores the fierce rivalry between the two Madrid clubs.
The exchange occurred as Vinicius headed towards the bench after being replaced by Álvaro Carreras. He directed a pointed remark towards Simeone, reportedly saying, “They were going to sell me, they were going to sell me,” according to reports from ‘El Día Después’. The gesture was seen as a direct response to comments Simeone made to Vinicius during the Spanish Super Cup in January.
The roots of this animosity trace back to the Supercopa de España semifinal on January 8th in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. During that match, which Real Madrid won 1-2, Simeone reportedly told Vinicius, “Florentino is going to sell you, remember that. Remember that he is going to sell you. He is going to sell you, remember what I’m telling you,” as reported by El Correo. Simeone later apologized for his behavior, stating he didn’t seek to be in that position and acknowledged he was wrong, but the words clearly resonated with the Brazilian winger.
Vinicius, clearly motivated, delivered a performance that silenced some critics and fueled the fire of the rivalry. His two goals – a 52nd-minute penalty and a subsequent strike – were instrumental in securing the victory for Real Madrid and maintaining their challenge to Barcelona at the top of La Liga. After scoring, Vinicius dedicated his goals to Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, stating, “The president always tells me that I have to score two goals, and today I scored two; they’re for him.” He also emphasized his consistent performance, saying, “I’ve worked all season for games like these. I don’t recognize what it is about me, but I always get better, I always score, and I always provide assists.”
The incident wasn’t limited to the on-field exchange between Vinicius and Simeone. Another notable moment involved Vinicius’s interaction with Atlético defender Giuliano Simeone, the manager’s son. While pressing for possession, Vinicius reportedly told Giuliano, “You’re good as a lateral, play more as a lateral,” as reported by Infobae. This comment appeared to be a jab at Giuliano’s versatility and performance in the match. Giuliano Simeone had a strong showing himself, providing an assist for Ademola Lookman’s opening goal with a clever backheel pass.
The match itself was a tightly contested affair. Lookman’s goal gave Atlético the lead, but Vinicius’s penalty leveled the score. His second goal then set Real Madrid ahead, ultimately securing the win despite a late push from Atlético. The victory keeps Real Madrid firmly in the title race, trailing Barcelona as the season progresses.
This latest confrontation is far from an isolated incident. The rivalry between Vinicius and Simeone has been building for some time, fueled by on-field clashes and verbal exchanges. The Brazilian winger has often been a target for aggressive marking and challenges, and Simeone’s comments in the Supercopa clearly struck a nerve. The dynamic between the two figures adds another layer of intrigue to the already heated Madrid derby.
The incident also highlights the broader tensions between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, two clubs with a long and often fractious history. The Madrid derby is consistently one of the most fiercely contested matches in Spanish football, and the rivalry extends beyond the pitch, encompassing the fans, the cities, and the clubs’ respective philosophies.
Looking ahead, Real Madrid will face [next opponent to be confirmed] on [date to be confirmed] in La Liga. The focus will undoubtedly shift back to the league title race, but the fallout from this derby and the ongoing rivalry between Vinicius Jr. And Diego Simeone will continue to be a talking point. The next encounter between these two teams promises to be another explosive affair, with both sides eager to assert their dominance in the Spanish capital.
Fans can stay updated on official team news and schedules through the official Real Madrid website and Atlético Madrid website.
