La Liga deletes YouTube video as thumbnail featuring Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr sparks complaints from Barcelona fans

La Liga recently sparked outrage on social media after it posted a video of Vinicius Jr’s best moments from 2024 on its X and YouTube pages. However, the video elicited negative reactions, especially among Barcelona fans.

The video, which was posted on YouTube with the headline ''Lo Mejor de Vini Jr. en 2024'' according to Catalonia-based private radio station RAC 1 had its thumbnail manipulated as Real Madrid star Vinicius was seen celebrating a goal with Barcelona players lying on the ground around him.

The montage, however, did not sit well with La Blaugrana fans and some Atletico Madrid fans. It was eventually discovered that the fabricated thumbnail was created from the image of Atletico Madrid’s 96th-minute winner against Barcelona in La Liga on December 21.

The goal was scored by Alexander Sorlorth, and Hansi Flick’s men threw themselves to the ground out of frustration. La Liga reportedly montaged the goal-winning picture by replacing Sorlorth with Vinicius.

Barcelona fans' claim was validated after it was pointed out that their players were in the exact position as in the Sorlorth image. Meanwhile, Vinicius has yet to score against Barca in the ongoing season. La Liga had to take down the video shortly after it sparked controversy online.

''He tarnishes all the good things he has'' - When former Barcelona boss claimed that Vinicius ‘needs help’

Back in September, former Barcelona coach Quique Setien responded to Vinicius’ claim about the increasing rate of racism in Spain, saying the Brazilian winger needed help. Vinicius has often been targeted with racist abuse in La Liga, which has sometimes made the player lose his calm on the pitch.

During an interview with CNN, Vini suggested that Spain should be stripped of its 2030 World Cup hosting rights unless it makes progress on the issue of racism. He said,

"Until 2030, we have a lot of room to evolve," Vinícius said. "I hope that Spain can evolve, and understand how serious it is to insult someone because of the colour of their skin. If by 2030 things don't improve, I think we have to move the location, because if a player doesn't feel comfortable and safe playing in a country where they can suffer racism, it's a bit difficult."

Responding to the statement, Setien said:

"He needs help at this time. What he said about the World Cup that Spain will organize... He tarnishes all the good things he has as a footballer with this kind of thing."