Xabi Alonso Praises Vinicius Jr’s Attitude After Substitution

Xabi Alonso had good things to say about Vinicius Junior after taking him off during a tough Real Madrid match. He highlighted Vinicius’s performance and positive attitude, despite recent talks about his future.

WHAT HAPPENED?

During Real Madrid‘s latest La Liga game, Vinicius Jr came off after an energetic effort while the team played with one player less. Xabi Alonso praised his hard work. He said, “I spoke to him. He did a great job. We were with 10 players. He helped us and had a great game.” Alonso also added, “I see him well, with energy and confidence.”

RECENT TEAM CONTEXT

This season, both Vinicius and Real Madrid are under more scrutiny. After a disappointing 2024-25 season without winning any major trophy, Real Madrid hired Alonso, who joined the club on a contract lasting until 2028, and brought in players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Franco Mastantuono. After a winning start against Osasuna in their opening match, Madrid bounced back with a 3-0 win over Real Oviedo, and notably, they won 2-1 at Real Sociedad even though they played with ten men from the 32nd minute to stay top. Vinicius responded to being benched by scoring and assisting, proving his significance. Despite tense contract negotiations, he remains vital to the squad, which sits first in the league after four matches. They are two points ahead of Barcelona in 2nd place.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Real Madrid now prepare to face Espanyol, who are just below them in the European spots. Alonso’s management and player rotation will be tested as the team navigates a packed schedule with the Champions League group stage starting in two weeks. With questions about Vinicius’s contract and his future, each game will be crucial for both the club’s ambitions and for Alonso to keep his star winger motivated and focused as the La Liga race heats up.