Xabi Alonso Exposes Vinicius Jr's Explosive Response to Shocking Champions League Snub
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has acknowledged that Vinicius Junior felt frustrated after being left out of the starting lineup for the club's Champions League opening match.
Rodrygo was selected to start on the left flank for Madrid's encounter against Marseille, which concluded in a hard-fought 2–1 win, though Alonso emphasized the choice was merely tactical rotation rather than any underlying issues.
Nevertheless, this situation has added to Vinicius's challenges at Madrid. With just two years remaining on his current deal, contract renewal discussions have become strained as club executives debate whether his on-field contributions justify the substantial financial package the Brazilian winger is seeking.
This underlying tension seems to have affected Vinicius's demeanor, as Alonso revealed he wasn't initially receptive to discussing his benching, though the two have since had productive conversations about moving forward.
"I believe he's progressing well. Yesterday, clearly, following the recent events, you could tell he was still somewhat... it wasn't the appropriate moment for dialogue," Alonso stated. "But today, though, he appeared more upbeat, displaying a brighter attitude, more optimistic.
"We had a brief conversation, nothing extensive; but after training concluded, I conducted some individual sessions with him: working on crosses and finishing. He left feeling positive, as did I.
"I observed him yesterday... I didn't feel it was the proper time for discussion. You need that instinct. Today we did have a conversation. But we concluded training on a positive note, working on individual aspects, though we've only completed five league matches. There's still considerable ground to cover; it's an endurance race until May. Therefore, we must approach our evaluations gradually. We need to allow time for everyone: both the collective and individual players."
When asked directly if he thinks Vinicius is experiencing concentration issues, Alonso supported his key attacker by stating that the entire squad shares responsibility for helping him develop.
"In my view, there are numerous crucial players in this roster, considering their ability, experience, achievements, and potential contributions," Alonso added. "Vinicius is among them, along with Kylian [Mbappé], Jude [Bellingham], Fede [Valverde], Aurélien [Tchouaméni], Dean [Huijsen], [Dani] Carva... I'm likely overlooking some others.
"I won't engage with those classifications we're trying to impose currently. I hold everyone in high regard, I understand their respective roles, and I must construct the team so each player feels valued. We're setting our path; there's still much distance ahead; but everyone is aboard, and we require all hands working toward the same goal."