Vinicius Junior Shocks Real Madrid with Potential Departure Plans —Report
Vinícius Júnior is reportedly contemplating an exit from Real Madrid due to growing concerns that he may never establish a positive relationship with new head coach Xabi Alonso, according to Spanish media outlets.
Reports suggest ongoing friction between Vinícius and Alonso throughout the campaign, with the player's displeasure becoming evident during El Clásico when he reacted angrily to being taken off in the second half.
While a post-game interview on Real Madrid TV and an upbeat social media celebration of the victory hinted that tensions might be overblown, AS reports indicate the situation remains problematic.
Described as being "incensed" with his position under Alonso, Vinícius believes the current arrangement is unsustainable and is allegedly prepared to evaluate his Madrid future unless circumstances improve quickly.
Vinicius, Alonso Relationship Strained—Reports
In essence, Vinícius believes Alonso harbors negative feelings toward him. The Brazilian's increased defensive responsibilities, which Alonso specifically requested during the summer transfer window, have not yielded the anticipated benefits, and he feels his team role doesn't match his standing as one of football's elite talents.
After previously expressing similar grievances earlier this season when he was benched for two of the squad's opening four matches, his frustrations reached a breaking point during El Clásico with a visible outburst following his substitution. Alonso has committed to discussing the matter directly with Vinícius.
ESPN reports that the dynamic between Vinícius and Alonso has deteriorated since El Clásico. The winger is expected to consult with squad members for guidance before his direct confrontation with the manager to resolve the issues.
Complicating matters further is Vinícius's contractual status. With just 18 months remaining on his current agreement, extension negotiations have stalled. Although all parties would prefer to maintain their partnership, the possibility of his departure remains a genuine concern.
What Did Vinicius Junior Say As He Left the Pitch?
Video evidence of Vinícius's heated response to Alonso's decision to substitute him during the final 20 minutes of Sunday's match has undergone extensive scrutiny. The 25-year-old directed profanity toward Alonso while questioning "Me? Me?" but DAZN suggests his subsequent remarks were particularly significant.
Upon reaching the substitutes' bench, Vinícius allegedly declared: "Always me! I'm leaving the team! I'm leaving, I'd better go!"
Since he proceeded directly to the tunnel, it remains unclear whether Vinícius was genuinely threatening to seek a transfer from Madrid or simply indicating his intention to remove himself from that particular situation.
Regardless, his dissatisfaction persists. Vinícius desires a position and compensation package comparable to Kylian Mbappé's, who is viewed as indispensable given his status among the world's top players.
Madrid are reportedly willing to offer Vinícius a base salary equivalent to Mbappé's wages, but earlier reports suggest his frustration centers on Mbappé receiving a substantial signing bonus upon arrival which, distributed over time, significantly elevates his total compensation beyond his official salary. The desire to address this financial gap has created considerable tension.