Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso launched a furious attack on his Atletico Madrid counterpart Diego Simeone, accusing him of crossing a line of respect during their Spanish Super Cup semi-final clash in Saudi Arabia.
The Touchline Flashpoint
The explosive incident centred on Atletico boss Simeone and Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior. From his technical area, Simeone is alleged to have repeatedly told the Brazilian that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez wanted to 'get rid of him'.
The provocation continued when Vinicius was substituted. Simeone reportedly gestured towards the whistles from the crowd and told the player to "listen to the people!". A visibly angry Vinicius had to be held back by staff and teammates on the touchline as he appealed to officials to take action.
Alonso's Explosive Reaction
Post-match, a fuming Xabi Alonso pointedly refused to shake Simeone's hand. He did not hold back in his criticism, telling broadcaster Movistar that the Argentine's actions were unacceptable.
"I didn't like it. I saw that 'Cholo' said something to him. For me, those things cross a line in terms of respect of a colleague ... not anything goes," Alonso stated.
He expanded on his anger, emphasising the need for sporting respect. "I try to be respectful with players of opposing teams. When I saw and heard what [Simeone] said, I liked it even less. What he said isn't an example of a good sportsman. You have to have respect for your opponents. There's a limit."
Broader Context and Result
The row erupted against a backdrop of intense speculation over Vinicius's future at the Bernabeu. The 2024 Ballon d’Or runner-up is now without a goal in 15 games across all competitions and has been linked with moves to Chelsea and the Saudi Pro League amid reported tensions.
On the pitch, Real Madrid emerged victorious from the fiery encounter in Jeddah. Federico Valverde scored a second-minute free-kick before Rodrygo added a second after half-time. Alexander Sorloth pulled one back for Atletico, but Real held on to win 2-1.
The result sets up a Super Cup final against Barcelona on Sunday, a rematch of last year's final which Barcelona won 5-2. Barcelona thrashed Athletic Bilbao 5-0 in the other semi-final to book their place.
