Tensions between Vinicius Jr and Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso have become impossible to ignore. Once the undisputed star under Carlo Ancelotti, the Brazilian winger has struggled to adapt to Alonso’s more structured approach. Since the start of the 2025-26 season, Vinicius has played 90 minutes in just five matches and contributed only five goals and four assists in 17 appearances.
The first cracks in Vinicius’ relationship with Alonso appeared almost immediately. Reports suggest the manager initially planned to bench him in the Club World Cup semi-final against PSG, favoring homegrown forward Gonzalo Garcia alongside Kylian Mbappe. Circumstances forced Vinicius into the lineup, but he remained largely anonymous as PSG raced to a 4-0 lead.
Alonso insisted that the loss reflected more on Ancelotti’s team than his own, signalling a new dawn in Madrid’s tactical setup. Unfortunately for Vinicius, that dawn has diminished his role at the club.
Vinicius has every right to feel undervalued. Two years ago, he turned down a €20 million-per-season contract, insisting he was worth closer to €30 million. With Karim Benzema gone and Jude Bellingham still settling in, Vinicius was the club’s future. However, Alonso’s approach and the arrival of Mbappe have complicated matters, leaving Vinicius frustrated and unmotivated.
Unless his relationship with Alonso improves, reports suggest he will not sign a new contract, potentially becoming a free agent in 2027.
The addition of Mbappe has created tactical headaches. Both players operate on the left side but with slightly different styles: Vinicius dribbles wide and cuts in, while Mbappe prefers the left channel. Their combined presence has not always been complementary, forcing Ancelotti and now Alonso to struggle for balance.
Vinicius’ form has dipped, while Mbappe thrives under Alonso’s central positioning. It’s clear the Brazilian’s best years at Madrid may be behind him unless changes are made.
Vinicius’ options are limited. Interest from the Saudi Pro League has lingered, but nothing concrete has emerged. With just 18 months left on his contract, Madrid still hold value, though it diminishes with every week. A mega-money exit could benefit all parties: Vinicius would find a fresh start, Real Madrid would gain a significant transfer fee, and Alonso could reconfigure the squad—potentially creating space for Erling Haaland.
The message is clear: Real Madrid should not stand in the way of Vinicius Jr’s next move.
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