Vincius Junior is a player who constantly faces backlash and criticism for his actions on the field. It’s not because of his playing style (which is world class), but because of his battles with rival players, rival fans and even referees every game.
We have been experiencing this situation for many years. But what many thought was over now continues to repeat itself game after game. This time, the words of advice did not come from journalists, rivals or even LaLiga insiders, but from someone he knows well, having shared the stage with him: the one and only Toni Kross.
Kylian Mbappe takes a circus shot next to Vincius Junior
Harmful behavior that can affect the entire team
While attending an Icon League event, the retired German player talked about his past moments with the Brazilian winger at Real Madrid and how his actions sometimes had a negative impact on the team’s performance and image.
At the time, I often told[Vincius]enough was enough, because I felt like the whole team was being hurt by his actions.
He clearly understands that Vincius’ actions come from years of dealing with the worst parts of being a famous athlete who has faced ridicule, insults, threats and abuse from many rival fans in La Liga. Still, Claus admitted that sometimes those feelings can feel like they’re against everyone.
It’s understandable that at some point he might be a nuisance to the opposing team’s players, referees and opposing fans. As a team, I feel like everything is against everyone because of him.
The midfielder, who is currently living a new chapter in his life outside of football, revealed that he often calmed Vini down during matches so that he could stay focused and display his great style.
I often tried to calm him down a bit on the field, mostly to keep him from losing focus. I used to say to him, “Vincius, you’re so good that you don’t need any of that.”
His words may sound harsh and direct, but the pair shared the pitch for six years, from the time Vini joined the team in 2018 until Kroos retired last summer in 2024. They have won many trophies together, winning the Champions League twice (2022 and 2024) and La Liga three times (2020, 2022, 2024).
A familiar debate within Real Madrid
This situation reflects much more than just a behavioral problem. Since arriving at Real Madrid at the young age of 17 from a favela in Brazil, Vini has been the target of many disrespectful behaviors, including taunts, abuse and bullying. These acts against him never stopped and the maturational stages of his life were influenced by these traumatic experiences, creating his current arrogant and domineering personality while playing football. Off the field, he’s just a normal 25-year-old guy.
It is important to understand how to balance passion and personality when representing Real Madrid. Vincius has proven to be one of the club’s most important players, but his temperament remains a subject of debate among former teammates and analysts.
Kroos’ comments therefore reinforce the idea that Real Madrid expect emotional control commensurate with the competitiveness that has defined the club’s identity for decades.
