By Madrid, March 13, 2025 – Spanish sports journalist Juanma Castaño has sharply criticized Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior for his controversial gestures during the Champions League quarterfinal match against Atletico Madrid on March 12, 2025, at the Wanda Metropolitano. In a segment on El Partidazo de COPE, Castaño declared, “Vinícius has no solution,” reflecting on the Brazilian star’s provocative actions toward Atletico fans, which have escalated tensions in the Madrid derby.
💥 El mensaje de Juanma Castaño a Vinicius tras sus polémicos gestos en el Metropolitano
😰 “No tiene solución”
📻 #PartidazoCOPE https://t.co/ANVQEPHgPk
— El Partidazo de COPE (@partidazocope) March 13, 2025
The incident occurred after Real Madrid’s victory in a penalty shootout, following a tense match where Vinícius made taunting gestures toward the Atletico crowd. This came amid ongoing hostility, including racist chants of “Vinícius, chimpancé” from some Atletico fans—marking the fourth such incident since 2022. These chants, documented in previous matches, have drawn widespread condemnation and led to legal actions, including Real Madrid filing complaints and Brazil naming an anti-racism law after Vinícius in 2023.
Castaño, known for his candid commentary, argued that Vinícius, as a high-profile player, should maintain composure despite provocations. “If there’s a fool in the stands, the player on the field can’t become one too,” he said, emphasizing the responsibility of public figures. The journalist’s remarks echo his history of outspoken opinions, including criticism of Real Madrid’s women’s team and VAR decisions in Spanish football.
Vinícius’s actions have drawn mixed reactions. Some defend his right to respond to racism, while others, like Castaño, believe his behavior risks overshadowing his on-field brilliance. The 24-year-old has been a target of abuse in Spain, but his disciplinary record—marked by a red card against Valencia earlier in 2025—has also raised concerns. Despite this, Vinícius remains a key player for Real Madrid, contributing to their Champions League campaign and La Liga lead.
The controversy has reignited debates about racism, player conduct, and refereeing in Spanish football. As the rivalry between Real Madrid and Atletico intensifies, Castaño’s critique highlights the broader challenges facing the sport, leaving fans and analysts divided on how to address Vinícius’s role in these ongoing tensions.
