Real Madrid’s star forward, Vinícius Júnior, was surprisingly left out of the starting lineup by coach Xabi Alonso for the LaLiga match against Real Oviedo.
Alonso’s decision also left out Trent Alexander-Arnold, generating surprise among fans.
Vinícius’s absence comes after a performance considered below expectations in the first match of the season against Osasuna.
Instead, Rodrygo, who has been linked with a possible exit from the club, took the position in the starting eleven.
Captain Dani Carvajal was preferred over newcomer Alexander-Arnold.Vinicius Junior was excluded from the Real Madrid team for their La Liga match against Oviedo.
In addition, 18-year-old Franco Mastantuono made his first start with the team, ten days after his presentation as a Madrid player.
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Real Madrid seeks a season of redemption under Alonso’s management, after failing to achieve important titles in the 2024-25 season.Trent Alexander-Arnold was also excluded from the Real Madrid team.
The club has added Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras and Mastantuono this summer, with the aim of strengthening the squad.
Alonso stated that Vinícius “looks good” and admitted to having spoken with Rodrygo about his role in the team.
It has been speculated that Alonso considered leaving Vinícius out of the starting eleven for the Club World Cup semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Rodrygo reportedly expressed to the coach his desire to play on the left wing.
