Vinicius vs. Xabi Alonso: The Tension Behind Real Madrid’s El Clásico Win

Real Madrid’s victory in El Clásico was overshadowed by Vinicius Jr.’s shocking behavior after being substituted. In the 72nd minute, he was replaced by Rodrygo — and completely lost his temper. The Brazilian shouted, gestured angrily, and stormed off the pitch, reportedly saying he was done with the club. He even went straight to the locker room without shaking Xabi Alonso’s hand, though he later returned.

The incident sparked global criticism. Vinicius’s reputation for controversy is nothing new, but this time he dragged his new coach into the chaos. Instead of focusing on results, Alonso now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust with one of his biggest stars.

In his public apology, Vinicius didn’t even mention Alonso:

“I already apologized personally during today’s training session and want to do it again to my teammates, the club, and the president. Sometimes passion takes over — I always want to win and help my team.”

According to The Athletic, the player deliberately skipped addressing the coach, signaling that the tension is real.

A Clash of Styles

Things haven’t been calm at Real Madrid since Alonso’s arrival. The new coach has brought competition, discipline, and tactical structure — demanding everyone, including Vinicius, to work defensively. Under Carlo Ancelotti, that was never the case. The Italian masterfully managed egos and relied on individual brilliance to win games. That freedom helped Vinicius nearly win the Ballon d’Or in 2024.

But under Alonso, the rules are different. The system comes first, and the stars must adapt. While Vinicius remains crucial to Madrid’s attack, Kylian Mbappé is now the main figure. The Brazilian’s ego is showing — he’s frustrated with frequent substitutions and what he sees as a lack of playing time. Rumors of his possible departure had already begun even before El Clásico.

After the game, those rumors exploded. Major outlets are now reporting that Vinicius could leave Real Madrid — a storyline fueled by his own emotional outburst. Whether he truly intends to go or not, he’s already made a dangerous move by refusing to apologize to his coach.

Alonso’s Authority

Real Madrid’s management fully backs Xabi Alonso, and for now, he’s delivering results — leading La Liga and comfortably progressing in the Champions League. The club hired him to build a system, not a circus, and he has every right to enforce his vision.

Vinicius’s problem isn’t tactical — it’s psychological. Alonso has made it clear that no player is above the team. If someone wants special treatment, they’re free to find another club. So far, only Vinicius seems unwilling to adapt.

Transfer rumors point to Saudi Arabia and PSG. The former seems far more realistic — the Saudi league would suit his temperament and style. PSG, on the other hand, rebuilt their locker room around unity and collective effort; they don’t need another star with disciplinary issues.

The Future

A contract renewal with Real Madrid is still possible. Alonso isn’t self-destructive — he knows Vinicius can be a game-changer when his head is in the right place. Attempts to repair the relationship will surely follow. But Alonso won’t compromise his principles.

For now, the ball is in Vinicius’s court. If he can accept the coach’s system, he’ll continue to shine. If not, his decline might begin sooner than expected. Real Madrid will survive without Vinicius — but will Vinicius survive without Real Madrid?

One thing is certain: sooner or later, he’ll have to apologize to Xabi Alonso.

Published by Patrick Jane
30.10.2025