A headline member of the attacking ranks at La Liga giants Barcelona has on Tuesday launched a staunch defence of Real Madrid counterpart Vinícius Jr.
This, of course, comes amid the ongoing criticism directed at Vinícius for his behaviour on the pitch.
Widely considered to be one of world football’s standout players, and the leading contender to lift the next Ballon d’Or, the name of wide-man Vini nevertheless finds itself on the wrong side of the media headlines time and time again.
As much comes with the Brazilian regularly accused of provoking not only opposition players, but fans, too, all whilst play-acting and complaining to the officials at every opportunity.
This combination of factors has culminated in Vinícius becoming public enemy no.1 amongst many fanbases, who, in turn, take their abuse of the 24-year-old entirely too far.
Speaking during an interview with RAC1 this week, it therefore came as little surprise when the subject of the treatment of his fellow countryman was put to Barcelona star Raphinha.
And the Blaugrana standout, as alluded to above, made use of the opportunity to leap to the defence of Vinícius:
“The Vinícius in matches is completely different from the Vinícius in person. This is totally normal, there are many players like that. I tell everyone that Vini is a spectacular guy.”
Conor Laird | GSFN
