Xabi Alonso Ignites Vinicius Junior Controversy With Explosive Penalty Call
Xabi Alonso delivered an indirect criticism of Vinícius Júnior following the winger's unsuccessful penalty attempt against Valencia, emphasizing that Kylian Mbappé remains Real Madrid's official penalty specialist.
The Whites secured a commanding 4–0 triumph over the 18th-ranked team on Saturday night, maintaining their strong position at the summit of La Liga. However, the match featured contentious moments, with Vinícius once more finding himself in the spotlight.
Rather than allowing Mbappé, who had already successfully scored from the penalty spot earlier and was pursuing a hat-trick, Vinícius Júnior approached the penalty area in the 43rd minute. The Brazilian's attempt was denied by Valencia keeper Julen Agirrezabala, leading to visible frustration from Alonso on the sideline.
Following the game, Alonso acknowledged that players possess autonomy to make on-field choices, yet he deliberately highlighted Mbappé as the player who should handle Real Madrid's penalty duties.
When questioned about his feelings regarding players self-selecting penalty takers, Alonso delivered this diplomatic reply: "I prefer it when they convert the penalties."
Underlying Friction Persists at Real Madrid Despite Victory Run
Alonso subsequently commended Vinícius's general display against Valencia, though the indirect criticism may have revealed escalating friction between the coach and his star player, which reached its peak during last weekend's El Clásico.
Vinícius became visibly agitated when Alonso substituted him in the 72nd minute against Barcelona, with the No. 7 departing angrily through the tunnel. After this episode, the 25-year-old delivered both private and public apologies to Real Madrid that conspicuously omitted any reference to his coach.
Nevertheless, Alonso proclaimed the matter "resolved" after receiving the apology, stating he was "extremely pleased" with Vinícius's response.
Regardless of the underlying tension between them, Los Blancos have now won six consecutive matches in all tournaments, preserving positive momentum throughout the squad.