Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has issued an apology to Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior following an incident during the Spanish Super Cup semi-final between the two rivals.
The Argentine coach was seen directing comments toward the Brazilian forward from the touchline during last Thursday’s match, with reports suggesting Simeone implied that Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez would eventually sell the player. The remarks drew attention amid the tense atmosphere of the Madrid derby.
Vinicius, 25, went on to play a key role as Real Madrid secured a 2–1 victory over Atletico Madrid to reach the final. However, Los Blancos later lost 3–2 to Barcelona in the final played in Saudi Arabia. Vinicius, whose contract runs until the summer of 2027, was substituted in the 81st minute, after which he and Simeone appeared to exchange further words.
Speaking after the match, Simeone acknowledged his actions and offered a public apology.
“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. The team that wins deserves to go through; they deserved to go through.”
When asked whether he felt his behaviour crossed a line, the Atletico boss stood by his apology but declined to elaborate further.
“I apologise, but I do not ask for forgiveness,” Simeone added. “I have nothing more to add.”
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
