Xabi Alonso Stuns Football World with Bold Vinicius Junior Call Ahead of Real Madrid's Champions League Clash

In a surprising development, Xabi Alonso has left Vinícius Júnior on the bench for Real Madrid's Champions League encounter against Marseille.

The newly appointed Real Madrid manager raised eyebrows with his starting lineup selection for this crucial match. Alonso not only handed Franco Mastantuono his Champions League debut but also chose Rodrygo for the left-wing position ahead of Vinícius Júnior.

This choice reflects Alonso's consistent commitment to squad rotation, a strategy that Carlo Ancelotti seldom employed during his time managing Real Madrid. The former Bayer Leverkusen coach has previously sidelined new acquisition Trent Alexander-Arnold on two occasions this season, and now places his faith in Rodrygo for his inaugural Champions League game managing the world's most prestigious club.

The 24-year-old winger, who remained unused throughout the weekend's depleted 2–1 triumph over Real Sociedad, now gets his chance to shine in his preferred role following a disappointing beginning to the 2025–26 campaign.

Vinícius Júnior, conversely, must observe from the sidelines as his team begins their Champions League journey at the Santiago Bernabéu. This decision appears severe considering the attacker's excellence in this tournament.

Since Cristiano Ronaldo's exit, Vinícius Júnior has emerged as one of Los Blancos' standout performers on Europe's premier platform. He even achieved the distinction of becoming the youngest player ever to find the net in two Champions League finals.

Nevertheless, Alonso is backing Rodrygo to contribute to Real Madrid's pursuit of three points against Marseille. The Brazilian will aim to justify his manager's faith with his first competitive goal since March.

Kylian Mbappé completes Los Blancos' attacking trio. The French striker needs just two more goals to equal Thomas Müller and claim sixth place among the Champions League's all-time top scorers.