"Any player who feels superior has a problem... Unless you're Lionel Messi" - Ex-Atletico star slams Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr for El-Clasico antics

Former Atletico Madrid captain Gabi has slammed Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr, claiming he cannot feel superior to others because he is not Lionel Messi. He was not happy with the Brazilian star's reaction to being taken off in the 2-1 win over Barcelona last week.

Speaking to El Larguero, Gabi said he hates Vinicius Jr.'s theatrics, as they do not reflect well on his character or his respect for his Real Madrid teammates. He believes that Lionel Messi is the only player who can win matches on his own, and can be furious at a manager's decision to take him off.

He said (via Tribal Football):

"He tests everyone around him every day. For me, it was to be expected; the one who has to take action is the coach. What I detest most in a footballer is the theatrics and grand gestures, being put to the test in public... Whatever you want behind closed doors, no problem... What would I have done after the Clásico? After the match, you have to talk to him. You can't just let it go and have him issue a statement and not apologize to the coach. It's unacceptable and egocentric." "It's a combination of things. You get carried away and do things that, in my opinion, are inappropriate. You judge teammates, the coach, a whole country, saying we're all racist... what the hell is going on? This isn't the path for me. It's very difficult to know how to win; you get carried away and do things that aren't right. No one can think they are above the team. Any player who feels superior has a problem... Unless you're Lionel Messi, who won games single-handedly."

Vinicius Jr was angry at Xabi Alonso for taking him off in the 72nd minute, and the Brazilian has since apologized. The Real Madrid manager has also stated that he will not be taking any action and has put it behind him.

Lionel Messi wanted to follow former Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo to Saudi Pro League

Abdullah Hammad, CEO of the Mahd Sports Academy, has revealed that Lionel Messi wanted to join a side in the Saudi Pro League after the 2025 MLS season to keep himself fit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He told Thmanyah:

"During the last Club World Cup, Messi's team contacted me and offered for him to play in Saudi Arabia because the MLS will stop for nearly four months. The player wanted to remain in shape and prepare himself for the upcoming 2026 World Cup."

However, the decision-makers in SPL rejected the idea, as they did not want the league to be used to maintain fitness for another tournament. They are only interested in signing players who are willing to contribute to the league, like ex-Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, and Lionel Messi ended up penning a new deal at Inter Miami.

Edited by Sripad