Xabi Alonso did not let it slide. After the Super Cup semi-final between Real Madrid and Atletico, won by the Merengues (2–1), the Madrid coach publicly called out Diego Simeone for a very borderline remark aimed at Vinicius Junior during the match.
In a derby already played under extreme tension, the Argentine coach had shouted at the Brazilian winger, “He’s going to fire you, Florentino is going to fire you! Remember what I’m telling you.” A direct and personal provocation that, in Alonso’s eyes, clearly crossed the line. Visibly annoyed, the Real coach did not want to escalate things, but reminded everyone of a simple principle: not everything is allowed on a football pitch. “I didn’t like that moment. Cholo said something to him and it goes against the spirit you should have toward your opponents. I don’t like speaking to opponents that way. Not everything is allowed,” he said, adding that he always tries to be respectful and that what was said was not an example of good sportsmanship.
Simeone Issues a Public Apology After the Controversy
The message was clear and aimed straight at “Cholo,” known for his taste for provocation and psychological warfare. This time, however, the method did not go down well. For Alonso, intensity and pressure are part of a derby, but personally attacking an opposing player is not acceptable, especially in a context where Vinicius is already frequently targeted and under heavy scrutiny.
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As the controversy quickly grew in Spain, Diego Simeone eventually broke his silence. On Monday, at a press conference, the Atletico coach apologized. “I would like to apologize to Mr. Pérez and to Mr. Vinicius for the incident. I did not act well by putting myself in that situation and I accept that it was not correct. I apologize, but I am not asking for forgiveness. I have nothing else to add,” said the Argentine coach.
A mea culpa that should ease tensions, even if the episode will leave its mark. In this always electric Real-Atletico rivalry, Xabi Alonso wanted to set a clear boundary and remind everyone that even in a war of nerves, respect should never be optional.
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