Real Madrid boss, Xabi Alonso, remarked that he "won't make a big deal" of Vinícius Júnior's anger after being taken off during Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Espanyol on Saturday. The Brazil international
looked disappointed when he was taken off in the 77th minute of the LaLiga game at the Santiago Bernabéu and replaced by Rodrygo. He had played well after returning to the club after being left out in the middle of the week.
The Brazilian stormed off the field and went directly to the bench with an angry look on his face, without uttering a word to his manager. It was during a cooling break, so he didn't walk past him. Alonso understood why Vinicius was so angry. During the press conference on Monday, Xabi mentioned the entire reaction. "I've been a player too, when I was substituted, it isn't always the nicest moment. It's normal, it's natural."
I am happy with what he's doing, and we're getting started: Xabi Alonso on Vinicius Junior's performance
While explaining the collective game, the Real Madrid manager explained that playing in a collective way and all his players are important to him. “The other day, everyone was happy… with the win and the feeling. And that’s what we need: to be a team. Everyone understands the role we want for the team, that everyone has to contribute. “I’m happy with what he’s doing, and we’re just getting started. There’s still a long way to go, and he has to feel important.”
Meanwhile, he skipped to speculate about which men's player will be the winner of Ballon d'Or, as three of the leading players, Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius and Bellingham are nominated. "We'll see what happens," Alonso said. "I watch a lot of football but it isn't a thing for me, I don't have to vote... I haven't thought about it much, I've been thinking about Levante."
Since the time Xabi took over the position of manager ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, the team has been doing better. In 2025-26, Real Madrid won all six matches played, and Xabi is confident of winning further games.
