Vinicius Jr. Explodes Back to Life: How Real Madrid's Brazilian Star is Igniting Their Championship Dreams
Following a difficult four-month period, Vinicius Junior has rediscovered his confidence at Real Madrid, increasingly resembling the player who was in contention for the 2024 Ballon d'Or. What's behind this transformation? It might just be the figure on the sidelines.
Upon Álvaro Arbeloa's appointment to replace Xabi Alonso, among his initial remarks was describing the Brazilian star as "one of the most thrilling players globally." While this comment wasn't particularly bold or extraordinary, it revealed something significant: The new manager was prioritizing public backing for Vinicius Jr.
The winger must have felt relieved seeing a fresh face in the technical area after his connection with former manager Alonso deteriorated dramatically in public view. A Clásico breakdown and stalled contract talks highlighted the broken relationship between coach and star player, overshadowing one of the genuine issues troubling Real Madrid.
Vinicius Jr's Performance Drop Triggered Real Madrid's Troubles
Vinicius Jr's Performance Drop Triggered Real Madrid's Troubles
While Spanish journalists concentrated on analyzing minor exchanges between Vinicius Jr and Alonso, or brief press conference moments and subtle social media hints, the Brazilian attacker was struggling on the field.
Vinicius Jr's signature sprints along the left wing became foreseeable and simple to neutralize. His finishing within the penalty area lacked clinical execution. He frequently relied too heavily on his dribbling skills to create opportunities rather than involving his teammates.
During his 33 matches under Alonso, Vinicius Jr managed just seven goals—with six of those strikes coming between last summer's Club World Cup and the October international pause. The 25-year-old then endured a 16-match scoring drought, finally ended in January's Spanish Super Cup final.
Vinicius Jr – Performance Overview Under Xabi Alonso
Vinicius Jr – Performance Overview Under Xabi Alonso
Vinicius Jr managed only eight assists throughout Alonso's tenure, with five occurring before the October international period. After returning to Madrid, the winger contributed just three assists over the following three months.
It's hardly surprising that during this period, Real Madrid lost their La Liga leadership and suffered Champions League losses to Liverpool and Manchester City. Across all tournaments, they dropped points in five of eight matches between Nov. 4 and Dec. 10, indicating a crisis in the Spanish capital.
Vinicius Jr Revitalized Under Arbeloa
Vinicius Jr Revitalized Under Arbeloa
A month later, Alonso was dismissed and replaced by Real Madrid Castilla manager Arbeloa. The new coach began his stint poorly, watching his squad get knocked out by Segunda División side Albacete in the Copa del Rey round of 16.
Vinicius Jr featured in that match and again appeared a shadow of his former self, generating only two chances and registering one shot on target across 90 minutes. However, Arbeloa strongly supported his player and took complete responsibility for the defeat.
The 15-time European champions gradually found their rhythm under his guidance as time progressed, with Vinicius Jr at the heart of the team's resurgence. Suddenly, the former Flamengo star was displaying brilliance again, influencing match results with his explosive speed and crucial final-third contributions.
Vinicius Jr – Performance Overview Under Álvaro Arbeloa
Vinicius Jr – Performance Overview Under Álvaro Arbeloa
In merely eight games under his new manager, Vinicius Jr has scored five goals, almost matching his entire first-half season total. He has also recorded two assists, accumulating seven goal involvements in eight appearances.
More remarkable than the statistics are the quality of goals Vinicius Jr is netting, with his latest strike against Benfica ranking among the finest in his distinguished career. Confidence radiates from the winger, undoubtedly boosted by the faith and encouragement from his new manager.
Vinicius Jr is no longer being substituted under the pretense of "squad management." He's no longer being withdrawn from matches without clear justification. He's no longer being forced into peculiar tactical formations that didn't suit his—or his team's—natural style.
At last, Vinicius Jr has been liberated.
Vinicius Jr's Revival Positions Real Madrid as Trophy Contenders
Vinicius Jr's Revival Positions Real Madrid as Trophy Contenders
Just weeks ago, Real Madrid eliminated two of their four trophy opportunities this season after losing the Spanish Super Cup final and exiting the Copa del Rey. The remaining silverware consists of the two most challenging to secure: La Liga and the Champions League.
Real Madrid appeared unlikely to claim either at the year's beginning, but they have silently assembled an impressive streak only interrupted by their group stage loss to Benfica. Los Blancos have claimed victory in their previous eight league fixtures and earned a 1–0 advantage in the Champions League knockout phase playoff first leg.
Arbeloa currently leads the team at the La Liga summit with a two-point advantage over Barcelona, and holds a commanding position in their Benfica matchup. Throughout this period, Vinicius Jr has excelled, even facing alleged racist incidents, and rekindled dormant optimism across the Bernabéu. Trent Alexander-Arnold's arrival has further enhanced Real Madrid's championship push.
Considerable football remains before the 15-time European champions can genuinely contemplate the Spanish or European titles. However, with Vinicius Jr again appearing among the world's elite players, partnering with arguably the most prolific scorer in Mbappé, Los Blancos are quietly, steadily, menacingly reminding football just who they are ... all under Arbeloa's guidance.