Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has formally apologised to Vinicius Junior following an exchange between the two during the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Real Madrid.
The incident took place on the touchline, where Simeone was seen directing comments at the 25-year-old Brazilian winger. Reports suggested the Argentine coach referenced Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, implying the club could consider moving Vinicius on in the future.
Diego Simeone Accepts Responsibility
After the match, Simeone addressed the situation and admitted his conduct was inappropriate.
“I would like to apologise to Mr Florentino and Mr Vinicius for the incident they witnessed,” Simeone said.
“It was wrong of me to put myself in that position, and I accept that it was wrong.”
Despite the apology, Simeone stopped short of asking for forgiveness, adding that the team that won the match deserved to progress.
Exchange Continues at Substitution
Simeone also appeared to exchange words with Vinicius when the winger was substituted in the 81st minute of the semi-final. When asked if his behaviour had crossed a line, the Atletico manager responded:
“I apologise, but I do not ask for forgiveness. I have nothing more to add.”
Vinicius, whose contract with Real Madrid runs until the summer of 2027, helped his side defeat Atletico 2–1 in the semi-final. He later found the net in the final against Barcelona, but Real Madrid were narrowly beaten 3–2 in Saudi Arabia.
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