Alonso Critiques Simeone’s Conduct During Supercopa Clash

Xabi Alonso has publicly criticized Diego Simeone for his conduct toward Vinícius Júnior during Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid in the Supercopa semifinal. Alonso remarked, “not anything goes,” highlighting the need for respect among players and coaches.

Real Madrid took an early lead with a second-minute free kick from Federico Valverde, followed by a goal from Rodrygo in the second half. Though Alexander Sorloth managed to score for Atlético, Real Madrid is now poised to face Barcelona in the final scheduled for Sunday in Jeddah.

Television footage captured Simeone on the sidelines, reportedly telling Vinícius that Madrid president Florentino Perez was “going to get rid of him” during the match, subsequently gesturing towards the crowd’s reaction when Vinícius was substituted.

Alonso expressed his disapproval when discussing Simeone’s actions, stating, “I didn’t like it. I saw that ‘Cholo’ said something to him. For me, those things cross a line in terms of respect for a colleague…not anything goes.” He further emphasized his belief in showing respect to opposing players during a news conference, remarking that Simeone’s comments were not indicative of good sportsmanship and that there are indeed limits to acceptable behavior.

Both Simeone and Vinícius received yellow cards from the referee following their exchange as the player exited the field. Additionally, Alonso confirmed that Kylian Mbappé, who missed the semifinal due to a knee sprain, is scheduled to travel to Jeddah on Friday in preparation for the final. “Kylian travels tomorrow,” Alonso noted, adding that the player is feeling much better and has participated in training.

Simeone did not deny making comments about Madrid’s plans for Vinícius but refrained from elaborating further. “I don’t have anything to say,” the Atlético coach told Movistar. “I always said, since I was a player: things that happen on the pitch stay on the pitch. I have nothing more to say. I respect all of Real Madrid’s players a lot.”

The Atlético coach also had verbal exchanges with Madrid substitute Dani Carvajal at halftime, as well as with Valverde when Vinícius was withdrawn. Valverde commented on the situation, stating, “There are codes between footballers and coaches. It’s part of football. The important thing is that it stays on the pitch. Football has to have that spark.”

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois praised Valverde’s early free kick, describing it as “like something out of a cartoon.” He noted, “It was a great goal. I saw it from behind. Fede has a great shot. Nobody expected a shot like that, around the outside of the wall.”