Real Madrid legend and former manager Valdano has once again publicly criticised Vinicius for his excesses on the field, arguing that it is not only damaging to the player's own image, but also to the detriment of Real Madrid as a whole.
After Real Madrid's 1-0 win over Getafe, in which Vinicius was the centre of attention, Valdano was outspoken on the Movistar Plus+ programme, stating, "Every game we're asking Vinicius to restrain himself, especially in those exaggerated gestures. Vinicius is not doing Real Madrid, himself or his image any favours with these physical gestures."
The Argentine, who played for Real Madrid from 1984 to 1987 and coached the team from 1994 to 1996, was also Real Madrid's sporting director from 2003 to 2009. He said Vinicius' emotional reactions have become an age-old problem plaguing the team and called on him to learn self-control outside of athletics.
Valdano warned Vinicius about his attitude back in September after Real Madrid's win over Espanyol. At the time, Vinicius sparked concern when he showed clear displeasure after being substituted for Xabi Alonso. Valdano said at the time, "Vinicius is not the same Vinicius he used to be and the coach (Xabi Alonso) is not the same (Carlo Ancelotti) he used to be. These behaviours in public are unhealthy, in every situation."
He also highlighted the unprecedented support Vinicius has received at Real Madrid. He said, "Vinicius is someone who has received great support from Real Madrid. He has been the enemy of the world. People, even the club, preferred Vinicius between 'the world' and Vinicius ...... but Real Madrid people always put the club before the player. Vinicius must focus on the kind of level he has shown - a level that would have finished second in the Ballon d'Or voting.