Photo: How Vinícius Jr. responded to Xabi Alonso hauling him off vs Athletic Club

Real Madrid star Vinícius Jr. showcased an altogether improved attitude, after being taken off during the club’s clash with Athletic Club on Wednesday.

This came by way of a warm embrace with manager Xabi Alonso.

Attacker Vinícius has of course come in for heavy criticism on more than one occasion this season, for his response to being substituted.

Upon the Brazilian’s number flashing across the 4th official’s board at San Mamés, all eyes therefore quickly turned to Vinícius.

And the 25-year-old responded in exactly the manner his coaches would have been hoping, making his way to the touchline before warmly hugging Xabi Alonso:

Vinícius played his part in what proved to be a stellar evening’s work for Real Madrid all told on Wednesday.

Desperate for a return to winning ways following three games without as much in La Liga, the Kylian Mbappé-inspired visitors cruised to the right side of an eventual 3-0 result.

Conor Laird – GSFN