Diego Simeone has issued a public apology to Vinícius Jr and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, bringing an unexpected twist to one of the most controversial Madrid derby episodes in recent memory. The Atlético Madrid head coach addressed the situation just days after tensions flared during the Spanish Super Cup semi-final, where Real Madrid defeated Atlético 2-1.
The incident stemmed from a heated exchange between Simeone and Vinícius Jr on the touchline, which escalated when Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso intervened, visibly angered by what he had heard. The confrontation quickly became the dominant talking point after the match, overshadowing the on-field action.
In a statement highlighted by Fabrizio Romano, Simeone admitted fault and took full responsibility for his actions. “I want to apologise to Vinícius Junior and Florentino Pérez… I was wrong,” the Argentine coach said. “What happened the other day and what I said was not right, and that’s why I’m apologising today.”
The apology marks a rare moment of public self-criticism from Simeone, a manager renowned for his confrontational style and fierce defence of his team. Just hours earlier, he had claimed he could not remember what he said to Vinícius, a remark that drew heavy backlash from fans, pundits, and players alike.