Recently, Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos spoke about his former teammate Vinícius Júnior during an interview with Camel Live. The ex-midfield linchpin, who spent six seasons alongside the Brazilian forward in the Los Blancos dressing room, admitted he understands the growing criticism surrounding Vinícius. His remarks were not accusations but an attempt to explain the reality he witnessed firsthand: Vinícius’ talent is unquestionable, yet his approach to the game is creating tension both on and off the pitch.
Kroos bluntly stated: “I warned him more than once to know when to stop, because you could feel the entire team might be implicated by his behavior. This attitude naturally provokes disapproval from opponents, referees, and even the audience. You can understand that sometimes it really gets annoying—whether for opposing players, referees, or away fans.”
The German star said these issues are not limited to personal conflicts but also undermine team cohesion. According to him, the entire team felt that incidents involving Vinícius ultimately affected the collective: “As a team, you feel like everything surrounding him is putting the group at a disadvantage.”
Kroos confessed he repeatedly tried to intervene during matches: "I often tried to calm him down during games to prevent him from losing his rhythm—which did happen from time to time. I always told him: 'You’re so good, you don’t need any of these extra antics'." These comments come as Vinícius has been embroiled in multiple controversies recently, including a heated reaction after being substituted in El Clásico that drew criticism, ultimately ending with the player’s public apology.
Kroos’ words were more like advice from a senior than criticism: to shine brighter, Vinícius may need to reduce distractions and settle his mind. When such suggestions come from one of the most respected players of his generation, they have reignited a familiar debate within the Real Madrid camp.
