'Vinicius Jr. not behaving as he should' - Real Madrid legend wants Brazil star to avoid controversy

Former Real Madrid defender Ivan Helguera has called out Vinicius Jr. for making controversial gestures in Real Madrid's most recent game, a 3-3 draw away at Rayo Vallecano. Vini Jr. is arguably among the best players in the world when he lets his football do the talking, but has often been a subject of criticism due to his sometimes unbefitting demeanour, in which he engages in arguments with the referee or the fans of the away team.

Vini returned from injury and started for Real Madrid in their crucial 3-2 win away at Atalanta in the Champions League, but was brought on from the bench last weekend against Rayo Vallecano. He was introduced for Brahim Diaz in the 63rd minute, with Los Blancos leading 3-2. However, one minute later, the influential Isi Palazon made it all square.

Vini was unable to help the reigning LaLiga champions secure a winner, and was subsequently booked by the referee for dissent, which means he will be suspended for this weekend's league clash against Sevilla. To make matters worse, he also made inappropriate gestures towards the home fans, flashing them the number '2' with his fingers, implying that their team would be relegated to Segunda Division next season.

"For me, the other day the public behaved in a very polite manner. Nobody was insulted, no disrespect was shown," said Rayo president Raul Martin Presa following the game. "It is an inappropriate gesture, but it is in football, that is where is stays. The behaviour of the Vallecas fans was excellent throughout the match."

Speaking at an event, Helguera addressed Vini Jr.'s behaviour. "I think there are certain things that used to be done much more frequently and didn't have as many repercussions, but now anyone can do them," Helguera said (h/t AS).

"His gesture has been done by many players in the world in many places. Now perhaps we are following everything he does and in many moments perhaps he does not behave as he should behave. It's him, we know how he is and we have to try to stop him from doing that kind of thing. Now, there are too many repercussions in football for things that used to be much more normal.”

Having recovered from his injury, Vini Jr. will be key to Real Madrid's chances in the upcoming Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca. However, his suspension in the Spanish top-flight means that he won't be playing against Sevilla this weekend.