Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is reluctant to alter his starting XI, even after Vinicius Jr’s match-winning cameo against Real Oviedo.
…Alonso hints Vinicius Jr may continue as a substitute
…Praised attacker’s ‘big impact’ as a substitute
…Madrid face Mallorca next in La Liga match
‘I am very happy with Vini’, says Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso, but he gives no assurances on the playing time for outcast Dani Ceballos.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Alonso has hinted that Vinicius could continue in an impact substitute role after being dropped from the starting lineup. Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash with Mallorca, Alonso praised the Brazilian’s performance from the bench against Real Oviedo and suggested his status as an automatic starter is not guaranteed.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Vinicius was a surprise omission from the starting XI for last weekend’s 3-0 victory over Oviedo, with compatriot Rodrygo preferred on the left wing. The 25-year-old responded emphatically, coming on as a substitute to score one goal and provide an assist. The decision to bench him comes amid a standoff in contract talks between the Brazil star and Madrid, while club legend Pedja Mijatovic recently said the club should sell him.
WHAT ALONSO SAID
During his pre-match press conference, Alonso said: “I’m very happy with Vini. Against Oviedo, he showed he can have a big impact off the bench,” the manager stated. He stressed the importance of squad unity, adding: “In a locker room, the key is that everyone is willing to contribute, whether on the pitch or off… and he’s going to be crucial.
“In a locker room, the key is that everyone is willing to contribute, whether on the pitch or off. Truly believing in this is fundamental. And everyone here does. Vinicius is important in this, [Federico] Valverde, [Thibaut] Courtois… they’re all very important.”
WHAT NEXT FOR VINICIUS JR?
It remains to be seen whether Vinicius will be restored to the starting XI for Madrid’s home fixture against Mallorca on Saturday evening. Alonso has kept his cards close to his chest, but his comments suggest he is considering using the Brazilian as a high-impact player from the bench as Los Blancos look to secure a third straight win before the international break.
Goal
