Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso Defends Decision To Bench Vinicius

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has addressed questions surrounding his decision to drop Vinicius Junior to the bench in their 3-0 victory over Real Oviedo on Sunday, insisting it was strictly a tactical move.

The Brazilian forward, usually one of Madrid’s first names on the team sheet, started as a substitute alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold. Alonso instead placed his trust in Rodrygo, teenage prospect Franco Mastantuono, and Kylian Mbappe in attack.

Explaining the call, Alonso said it was about keeping the team balanced rather than sidelining his star man.

“Everyone is different, and you have to demand respect, and the relationship is a little different,” he said. “In football, decisions are made with the team in mind; you have to understand things, and that was the case today.”

Vinicius still made an impact, coming on late to score Madrid’s third goal in the 90th minute after Mbappe had already struck twice.

The manager also praised those who stepped up in Vinicius’ absence, particularly Rodrygo and Mastantuono.

On Rodrygo, he noted: “He had a good game. In the first half, on that side, he linked up well with Carreras. Mbappe sometimes dropped and so did Güler. He had one-on-one situations and a few shots.”

For Mastantuono, Alonso’s words carried a sense of belief in the teenager’s rapid adaptation: “He had a very good game. In a short time, he has managed to connect with the group and his teammates.”