Koke claims Vinicius can expect 'trouble' if he dances in the derby

An already tense Madrid derby could be in for more action when Real visit crosstown rivals Atlético on Sunday.

This upcoming fixture featured a surprisingly high amount of discussion regarding celebrations. It all stems from last season’s breakout star, Vinicius Junior and his dance after scoring. Last time out, against Mallorca, Vini Jr. scored Real’s second goal of the game. From there, drama ensued.

The Brazilian international then claimed that the opposing coach shouted “hit him!” in an attempt to injure Vinicius. Both the coach and player were seen arguing on the sidelines during the match.

Atlético midfielder Koke was asked on Friday how the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium crowd would react if Vinicius celebrated with dance this weekend. “There would be trouble, for sure, [it is] to be expected,” Koke told Movistar+.

Nevertheless, the Spanish midfielder also stated that players can celebrate how they choose. “If in the end he scores and decides to dance, well, it’s what he wants to do. Would I understand it or not? Everyone has their own way of being and of celebrating goals as they please.”

Vinicius Jr. dance sparks outrage

Real manager Carlo Ancelotti does not get the dispute over the dancing. “He is a Brazilian, he dances very well, and I don’t think it bothers anyone,” Ancelotti recently said. “He doesn’t need to change anything regarding his attitude because he respects his rivals and the referee a lot.”

Former Barcelona legend and current boss Xavi also sided with Vinicius. “Each person celebrates things how they want to,” Xavi said in a press conference on Friday. “When you score a goal… you’re euphoric and for each person it comes out how it comes out.”

President of the Spanish agents association Pedro Bravo found himself in hot water for racist comments on the incident in Mallorca. “You have to respect the opponent,” said Bravo on live Spanish TV. “If you want to dance, go to the sambadrome in Brazil. In Spain, you have to respect rivals and stop playing the monkey.” Bravo quickly issued an apology via Twitter.

Soccer legend Pele has backed Vinicius as well and hit back at the racists comments. “Football is joy,” proclaimed Pele on Twitter. “It’s a dance. It’s a real party. Although racism still exists, we will not allow that to stop us from continuing to smile.”

The soccer world will be watching to see if Vinicius scores and dances on Sunday.

PHOTO: IMAGO / NurPhoto