Former Brazilian attacker, Rivaldo, has suggested that Real Madrid boss, Xabi Alonso, might be targeting Vinicius Jr to gain the respect of the other players.
The former Barcelona man also questioned whether there was any problem between the Spanish coach and the player.
Alonso subbed off Vinicius in the 72nd minute and brought on Rodrygo.
Vini was visibly angry and made gestures at the camera, muttering what has been translated to mean, “I should leave the club.”
He walked straight to the dressing room even while the game was still on and Real Madrid were leading Barcelona 2-1.
As quoted by Madrid Xtra via Sportskeeda, Rivaldo said, “I don’t know if there’s something personal between Vinicius and Alonso, but sometimes it happens that a coach chooses the most prominent player to gain the group’s respect.
“Vini, being the best player in the world last year, might become a target for this.
“If I can do this with Vini, I can do it with any other player.”