“That’s his character” - Benzema makes feelings clear about Vinicius’ frustration at Xabi Alonso after Real Madrid substitution in El Clasico

Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema has dismissed Vinicius Jr's reaction to being substituted against Barcelona as normal. He admitted that the Brazilian should have kept his emotions in check, but added that it was more about his frustration with the game than anything else.

Speaking to AS, Benzema said that Vinicius Jr wants to be on the pitch all the time and does not like getting taken off. He believes that the reaction during the win over Barcelona was normal and said (via Madrid Xtra):

“Vini Jr.’s reaction in El Clásico? He gets angry when he leaves the pitch. That’s normal. That’s his character. Okay, he shouldn’t do that. People need to know that’s how he is. He has a reaction. It’s nothing. He was doing well on the pitch, he thought he can do more, have more touches, but then he got substituted. He reacted because he doesn’t want to leave the pitch. It's normal. It's nothing.”

Vinicius Jr issued an apology to the team after the incident and wrote:

"Today I want to apologize to all the Madridistas for my reaction when I was substituted in the Clasico. Just as I have already done in person during today’s training, I also want to apologise again to my teammates, the club, and the president.

"Sometimes passion gets the better of me because I always want to win and help my team. My competitive character stems from the love I feel for this club and everything it represents. I promise to keep fighting every second for the good of Real Madrid, as I have done since the first day."

Xabi Alonso was quizzed in his next press conference about Vinicius Jr's reaction and apology, with the Real Madrid manager revealing that the incident had been brushed aside and that they had moved on.

Real Madrid legend slammed Vinicius Jr for his reaction

Real Madrid legend Fernando Morientes hit out at Vinicius Jr for his reaction during the Barcelona win. He claimed that the Brazilian was being disrespectful towards his manager and teammates, and said: (via SI):

"First of all, it seems to me like a lack of respect for the coach, because he has to make decisions. You can be angry, you can show your discontent, and then let your coach know about it the next day. I also think it's a lack of respect for the player who's coming on, who's a teammate of yours, not just at Madrid but on the national team as well. And a lack of respect for the fans, the coaching staff, everyone."

Vinicius Jr has scored five goals and assisted four times for Real Madrid in La Liga this season.