Both Real Madrid and Barcelona are looking to reset after an emotionally charged El Clasico, which left lingering issues for both sides despite Madrid’s 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu last weekend.
For Madrid, the win consolidated their position at the top of La Liga, but it also brought unwanted tension after Vinícius Júnior reacted angrily to being substituted by coach Xabi Alonso in the 72nd minute. The Brazilian stormed straight down the tunnel, drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike.
On Wednesday, the 25-year-old forward publicly apologised for his behaviour.
“I want to apologise to all Madrid fans for my reaction to being substituted in the Clasico,” Vinícius said. “I have already apologised to my teammates, the club, and the president.”
Although he made no direct mention of Alonso, the incident comes as negotiations over a new contract continue — even though his current deal runs until 2027.
Vinícius has scored five goals in La Liga this season, but Kylian Mbappé has taken centre stage for Madrid, netting 16 goals in 13 appearances across all competitions after his blistering start to life in Spain.
Madrid will hope relations between Alonso and Vinícius are mended ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Valencia, who sit in the relegation zone. The leaders will then travel to Liverpool for a crucial Champions League encounter.
Meanwhile, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona must regroup quickly after losing two of their last three league games — a slump compounded by a Champions League defeat to PSG.
The Catalans are also battling a worsening injury crisis. Midfielder Pedri, who was sent off in the Clasico, has now been ruled out for several weeks with a thigh injury. He joins Gavi, Raphinha, and goalkeepers Marc-André ter Stegen and Joan García on the sidelines, though Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo have returned to training.
Barça will host Elche on Sunday, hoping to steady their title defence and cut Madrid’s five-point lead at the top.
Elsewhere in La Liga, third-placed Villarreal host Rayo Vallecano, while Atletico Madrid, unbeaten since the opening weekend, face Sevilla. Real Sociedad will take on Athletic Bilbao in the Basque derby at San Sebastián.
La Liga Fixtures (GMT)
Friday: Getafe v Girona (20:00)
Saturday: Villarreal v Rayo Vallecano (13:00), Atletico Madrid v Sevilla (15:15), Real Sociedad v Athletic Bilbao (17:30), Real Madrid v Valencia (20:00)
Sunday: Levante v Celta Vigo (13:00), Alaves v Espanyol (15:15), Barcelona v Elche (17:30), Real Betis v Mallorca (20:00), Real Oviedo v Osasuna (20:00)
