Brazilian star Vinicius Junior faced heavy criticism after Real Madrid lost 2-0 to Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clasico at Camp Nou, in matchday 35 of La Liga. Donning the captain’s armband, the forward failed to make any notable technical contribution and instead repeatedly engaged with the home fans.
Barcelona’s victory secured their second consecutive La Liga title and the 29th in their history, while Real Madrid finished a trophyless season. Spanish newspaper *Mundo Deportivo* noted: “In a strange twist, the Brazilian was chosen to wear the captain’s armband on Sunday at Camp Nou, due to Dani Carvajal and Fede Valverde being absent from the pitch.”
The report added: “True, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, the third captain in theory, was playing, but the armband went to Vinicius, the fourth captain.” The paper further commented: “Vinicius started the match with a kind gesture by going to Hansi Flick to offer condolences for his father’s death, but later reverted to his old ways, pointing to the stands and signaling the number 15 (referring to Real Madrid’s Champions League titles).”
*Mundo Deportivo* concluded: “Choosing Vinicius as captain for El Clasico, in the absence of a great coach and beloved figure like Xabi Alonso, clearly shows Real Madrid’s current standing.” The Catalan publication described Vinicius Junior as the worst possible captain for Real Madrid.
