Alonso downplays Vinícius Jr.’s reaction after Real Madrid substitution.

Xabi Alonso Downplays Vinícius Júnior’s Reaction

Real Madrid’s technical director, Xabi Alonso, downplayed Vinícius Júnior’s apparent frustration after being substituted during the match against Espanyol, where the merengue team won with a score of 2-0. Vinícius, visibly annoyed, was substituted in the 77th minute of the match played at the Santiago Bernabéu, after a standout performance in his return to the team. Alonso acknowledged that he could have waited a little longer before making the change, considering the good performance of the Brazilian player. However, he justified the decision as a need to refresh the attack with fresh legs.

“I’ve been a player too. When you get substituted, it’s not always the most pleasant moment. It’s normal, it’s natural. We talk after the game, I like to be close to the players. I’m not going to make a big deal out of something small,” Alonso declared.

Xabi Alonso

This season, Vinícius has been a substitute on two occasions: in the LaLiga match against Real Oviedo and in the Champions League match against Marseille.

Vinícius Júnior was substituted in the 77th minute on Saturday after being a substitute against Marseille midweek.Real Madrid’s victory against Espanyol maintained the team’s perfect record for the season. Alonso also shared his satisfaction with the team’s collective spirit and the players’ understanding of the objectives. In addition, he expressed his support for Vinícius, highlighting the importance of the player feeling important and comfortable in this new stage of the championship. Regarding Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, who came on as substitutes in the match against Espanyol, Alonso indicated that they could start in the next match against Levante. Bellingham has had a rapid recovery after his shoulder surgery in July, while Camavinga hadn’t played since April. Alonso avoided speculating on the possible winner of the Ballon d’Or, despite the nomination of three Real Madrid players: Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius, and Bellingham.