Vinicius Junior Makes Bold Move to Mend Fractured Real Madrid Relations

Real Madrid's Brazilian winger Vinicius Junior appeared to make a deliberate effort to dispel rumors of tension with head coach Xabi Alonso during their 2-1 victory against Alavés on Sunday.

One of the significant challenges confronting Alonso this campaign has been his rapport with Vinicius. The controversy began in October during El Clásico when the Brazilian's angry response to being substituted sparked widespread debate and conjecture that nearly threatened Alonso's position.

While a powerful message was delivered two months prior, an equally significant gesture seemed to occur during Sunday's triumph over Alavés. A superb pass that set up what became the match-winning goal from Rodrygo triggered enthusiastic celebrations that Vinicius deliberately shared with Alonso.

Following the initial celebration with his fellow players, Vinicius sprinted toward the Madrid dugout to embrace Alonso, with both men hugging to mark a goal that potentially secured Alonso's position for at least several more days.

Near the match's conclusion, Vinicius was substituted once more, but this time without any friction. Rather, player and coach shared another warm embrace as Alonso consoled the winger regarding a penalty call both felt should have been given in his favor. The duo seemed aligned when it counted most.

Alonso: Madrid Stay 'United' in Quest to Overcome Poor Results

The triumph against Alavés is believed to have been vital for Alonso's chances of continuing as Madrid's manager. One factor in his favor is an increasing sense of unity and backing from the locker room that was clearly absent earlier in the campaign.

There seems to be a strengthening connection within the Madrid roster when facing challenges, and Alonso emphasized that this was clearly demonstrated against Alavés.

"We stand united, we battle together during positive moments and challenging periods," Alonso commented after the match. "The squad fought admirably. Our opening was excellent, and we managed to take the lead once more at the finish. Solidarity is essential.

"We remain highly concentrated on executing our approach. We stand together, getting ready for matches every three days. The players merit significant praise for this victory. We had numerous absent players, [defender Victor] Valdepeñas made his first appearance.

"We're unified in this effort. We face the Copa [del Rey] on Wednesday followed by Sevilla. There's still much ground to cover, but we must maintain consistency in the positive aspects we displayed today."