'It's my fault' - Vinicius Junior apologises to Brazil fans in emotional statement after sitting out Copa America quarter-final loss to Uruguay through suspension

Brazil were eliminated from this edition of the Copa America by Uruguay at the quarter-final stage in a shootout with Vinicius suspended for the crucial match due to an accumulation of yellow cards. His suspension stemmed from receiving two yellow cards during the group stage matches – the first in a 4-1 victory over Paraguay, where Vinicius scored twice, and the second in a 1-1 draw against Colombia.

Following Brazil’s elimination, Vinicius took to Instagram to express his remorse and apologise to the fans. He wrote, “Copa America is over and it’s time to reflect, and know how to deal with defeat. The feeling of frustration kicks in again and again on the penalties.”

The winger did not shy away from taking full responsibility for his unavailability and acknowledged that his suspension was due to his unthoughtful actions.

"I received two yellow cards and watched elimination from outside again, but this time it’s my fault. I apologise for that," he wrote.

Vinicius also addressed the criticism he has faced following Brazil's exit and insisted that he is his biggest critic.

"I know how to listen to the criticism and the harshest ones, believe me, come from within," he wrote.

He emphasised that he is just at the beginning of his journey with the national team and is committed to helping Brazil achieve its goals in the future.

"My national team journey, fortunately, is just beginning," he said. "Next to my teammates, I'll have the chance to relocate our national team to the place it deserves. WE WILL BE BACK ON TOP! I LOVE YOU AND WE ARE TOGETHER! 7️⃣🇧🇷🤝🏿."

Vinicius will take a break from action before he returns to pre-season with Real Madrid in the Spanish capital. However, Carlo Ancelotti's men will soon leave for the USA where they will face AC Milan in Chicago on July 31, before the much-anticipated clash against Barcelona in New Jersey a week later on August 3. They will conclude their US tour with a match against Chelsea on August 6.