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Football Insider

Toni Kroos comes to Vinicius Jr's defense after Clasico substitution incident

Vinicius Junior's emotional reaction to being substituted in the Clasico win over Barcelona has sparked debate, but Toni Kroos has leapt to the defense of his former teammate, emphasizing the complexity of the situation.

Toni Kroos comes to Vinicius Jr's defense after Clasico substitution incident

Vinicius Junior's disappointment at being substituted during Sunday's 2-1 Clasico win over rivals Barcelona drew a rather unpleasant reaction from the Brazilian, which has caused further controversy in the aftermath of the game. However, his former team-mate Toni Kroos believes "nobody can judge or imagine" the emotions the forward felt in the moment, although he urged the Real Madrid star to "keep his anger to himself a little more."

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Understanding Vinicius Jr's Reaction

Vinicius Junior's reaction to being replaced during Real Madrid's victory over Barcelona was caught on camera and immediately sparked controversy. The young Brazilian forward was visibly upset as he stormed off the pitch, displaying his frustration at being taken off in such a crucial match.

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Toni Kroos' Supportive Stance

In the aftermath of the incident, Toni Kroos, who played alongside Vinicius Jr at Real Madrid, has come forward to defend his former teammate. Kroos emphasized that outsiders cannot fully comprehend the emotions and pressures experienced by players in such moments, urging for understanding and empathy towards Vinicius Jr.

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Keeping Emotions in Check

While Kroos supported Vinicius Jr's right to feel disappointed and frustrated, he also advised the young star to manage his emotions more effectively. Kroos suggested that demonstrating anger in public is not beneficial for the player or the team, highlighting the importance of composure and professionalism even in challenging situations.

Published on October 28, 2025