“Constantly complains:...'Why didn’t I win the Ballon d’Or?’" - Ex-Barcelona man says Vinicius Jr is becoming a 'serious problem' for Real Madrid

Former Barcelona midfielder Emmanuel Petit has hit out at Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. The former World Cup-winning French midfielder has claimed that Vinicius is becoming a problem for Los Blancos both on and off the pitch.

Petit, who played for big clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea, has questioned Vinicius Jr's attitude. He has insisted that the Brazilian superstar always complains and his mentality has changed since losing out in the race for Ballon d'Or.

Many believed Vinicius Jr deserved the Ballon d'Or in 2024 but he lost out to Rodri for the biggest individual accolade in world football. Petit believes Real Madrid must address Vinicius' situation and his ego problems. The former Barcelona star told Jeffbet (h/t SPORT),

“Vinicius Jr. has been a problem at Madrid since he lost the Ballon d’Or to Rodri and Kylian Mbappe joined the club. He constantly complains: ‘Why always me? Why am I being substituted? Why didn’t I win the Ballon d’Or?’ He is becoming a very serious problem.”

The former Barcelona midfielder added:

"If I were in the dressing room with him, I would have a very frank conversation. I would say to him: ‘Aren’t you happy at Real Madrid, the biggest club in the world? Well, go to a smaller club and be the star there.'"

Vinicius Jr has scored five goals and provided four assists in 15 appearances across competitions this season. He has scored 111 goals and provided 87 assists in 337 games for Los Blancos till date since joining them from Flamengo in 2018. He has helped the club win 14 trophies so far including two Champions Leagues.

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Real Madrid make Vinicius Jr decision after incident against Barcelona in El Clasico: Reports

Real Madrid have reportedly made a decision to sell Vinicius Jr at the end of the current season. They are reportedly looking to cash in on the Brazilian superstar who is yet to sign a new deal to extend his stay at the Santiago Bernabeu.

As reported by Sport Bild, Los Blancos are unhappy with Vinicius' reaction during their 2-1 win against Barcelona. Even though the 25-year-old issued an apology for his angry reaction towards Xabi Alonso, the board are believed to be far from impressed.

Vinicius Jr's current deal with Real Madrid expires in the summer of 2027 and there has been no progress in contract talks. He has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League in recent months with a number of clubs vying for his signature.