An already tense Madrid derby could see more action when Real visit Atletico on Sunday.
This next meeting featured a surprisingly high amount of discussion about the celebrations. It all stems from last season’s breakout star Vinicius Junior and his post-scoring dance. In the final half, against Mallorca, Vini Jr. scored Real Madrid’s second goal of the match. From there, came the drama.
The Brazilian international then claimed that the opposing coach yelled “hit him!” in an attempt to injure Vinicius. Both the coach and the player were seen arguing on the sidelines during the match.
Atlético midfielder Koke was asked on Friday how the public at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium would react if Vinicius celebrated with dance this weekend. “There would be problems, sure, [it is] It was to be expected,” Koke told Movistar+.
However, the Spanish midfielder also stated that the players can celebrate however they want. “If in the end he scores and decides to dance, well that’s what he wants to do. Would he understand or not? Everyone has their own way of being and celebrating goals as they please”.
Vinicius Jr.’s dance sparks outrage
Real coach Carlo Ancelotti does not understand the dispute over dancing. “He is Brazilian, he dances very well and I don’t think he bothers anyone,” Ancelotti said recently. “He doesn’t need to change anything in terms of his attitude because he respects his rivals and the referee a lot.”
Former Barcelona legend and current boss Xavi has also sided with Vinicius. “Everyone celebrates things as they want”, said Xavi at a press conference on Friday. “When you score a goal… you’re euphoric and each one comes out the way he does.”
The president of the association of Spanish agents, Pedro Bravo, found himself in trouble for racist comments about the incident in Mallorca. “You have to respect your rival,” Bravo said live on Spanish TV. “If you want to dance, go to the sambódromo in Brazil. In Spain you have to respect your rivals and stop fooling around.” Bravo quickly issued an apology via Twitter.
Soccer legend Pelé has also endorsed Vinicius and responded to racist comments. “Football is joy,” Pelé proclaimed on Twitter. It’s a dance. It’s a real party. Although racism still exists, we will not allow that to stop us from continuing to smile.”
The world of football will be watching to see if Vinicius scores and dances on Sunday.
PHOTO: IMAGO / NurPhoto
