The former Barcelona, Arsenal and France midfielder believes Vinicius’s attitude has worsened since he missed out on individual praise and faced competition from high-profile teammates.
Petit did not hold back when describing the 25-year-old’s mentality, suggesting frustration and ego are beginning to cloud his professionalism.
As he told Jeffbet (h/t SPORT), “Vinicius Jr. has been a problem at Madrid since he lost the Ballon d’Or to Rodri and Kylian Mbappé arrived at the club.
“He constantly complains: ‘Why always me? Why do they replace me? Why didn’t I win the Ballon d’Or?’ “It is becoming a very serious problem.”
Having experienced life in several elite locker rooms, Petit argued that what Vinicius needs most is a reality check within his own field. He explained,
“If I was in the locker room with him, I would have a very frank conversation.
“I told him: ‘Aren’t you happy at Real Madrid, the biggest club in the world? Well, go to a smaller club and be the star there.'”
Criticizing Vinicius’ approach
The World Cup winner also criticized the Brazilian’s modern approach to apologies, stressing that such gestures should remain private.
In his words, “I don’t understand why players apologize on social media nowadays.
“If they want to apologize, they should tell the coach, the president, their teammates; it’s not necessary for everyone to see it.”
Petit then revealed that even Carlo Ancelotti, who has long defended Vinicius, may be tired of the striker’s attitude.
“I read what Carlo Ancelotti told him. He told him about the Classic and told him that Vinicius was wrong.
“If a coach like Ancelotti expresses himself like this, he is probably also fed up with Vinicius’ behavior.”
Finally, Petit suggested that jealousy could be at the root of Vinicius’ problems. He commented,
“Mbappé is the king. Vinicius is angry because he doesn’t earn so much and the team is built around Mbappé.
“Even Jude Bellingham was frustrated at first, but he reacted more professionally and is now scoring goals again.” he concluded.