Toni Kroos on Vinicius: “I told him to stop doing that

Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has weighed in on Vinicius Junior‘s recent behavior during matches, particularly following the Brazilian’s emotional reaction after being substituted in El Clasico. The incident has sparked considerable debate in Spain, with Kroos acknowledging that certain actions can negatively impact the team.

During an event in Düsseldorf as part of the Icon League, Kroos shared insights with Bild about his experiences playing alongside Vinicius from 2014 to 2024. He revealed that he often had to intervene to calm the young winger during intense moments on the pitch. “I frequently told him it was enough,” Kroos explained. “We could feel that his behavior was affecting the entire team.” This candid reflection comes after Vinicius faced criticism for his conduct in high-stakes matches.

Understanding Vinicius’s Frustration

Kroos empathized with the frustrations surrounding Vinicius’s temperament, admitting that his antics could be irritating for opponents, referees, and even fans. “It’s understandable that at some point, it can become annoying,” he stated. “As a team, we felt like everything was turning against us because of him.” This perspective highlights the delicate balance between passion and professionalism that players must navigate in elite football.

Emotional Reactions in High-Pressure Situations

The German international also emphasized the difficulty of assessing emotions from the outside. “You can always judge from afar, but no one except those involved in a Clasico before 80,000 spectators knows what it feels like when the score is tight,” Kroos noted. He recalled how he himself had never directly stormed off to the locker room after being substituted, suggesting that such reactions could be counterproductive. “Vinicius, you’re so talented that you don’t need to act like this,” he advised, aiming to help maintain the focus necessary for success on the field.

As discussions around player conduct continue to evolve, Kroos’s insights serve as a reminder of the complexities athletes face under pressure. Can Vinicius channel his passion constructively? The eyes of Madrid and beyond will be watching closely as he navigates this pivotal stage of his career.