Real Madrid’s win over Espanyol on Saturday barely made headlines compared to the real story in Madrid: Vinícius Júnior’s place in the squad. The Brazilian was back in the starting lineup, set up Mbappé’s goal, then came off midway through the second half for Rodrygo. On another day, maybe no one would’ve thought twice. But considering the bigger picture, it hit differently. Just a few days earlier, in the Champions League opener, he’d been left on the bench. That decision already raised eyebrows inside the club, and now it’s starting to look like one of the season’s trickiest issues.
According to Marca, Vinícius isn’t happy with this new role. Xabi Alonso has been rotating his lineup and has explained in press conferences that he wants to change things around. Fair enough, but for the No. 7 it doesn’t feel like a harmless tactical shuffle. Losing that leading role bothers him, especially after being central to two Champions League triumphs. And it’s not just something he keeps to himself in the locker room. Reports say the forward has even made his frustration clear to the board, including president Florentino Pérez.
The dilemma between trust and authority
Alonso can field whoever he wants, he’s the coach. But he also has to understand the weight of his choices. Vinícius has been a major figure in recent seasons, and he’s not the kind of player who should have to prove himself every other match. When someone of his caliber starts feeling sidelined, the locker room balance is at risk. And at Real Madrid, a club where small decisions carry huge consequences, one wrong move can even shake a respected manager’s standing.
It’s still early in the campaign. Vini has started four of the six matches so far, three in La Liga and one in the Champions League. In the others, Rodrygo got the nod on the left. On paper, no crisis. But in practice, the No. 7 feels like he’s under a magnifying glass that doesn’t apply to his teammates. That constant pressure takes a toll. Adding to it is the contract situation. His deal runs until 2027, and a salary adjustment seemed close to being wrapped up months ago. Now it’s stuck. Officially there’s no reason to panic, but the uncertainty only feeds his discomfort.
The risk of losing more than just a player
It’s not an exaggeration to say that without Vinícius, Real Madrid might not have celebrated those last two Champions League titles. He delivered in the biggest moments, scored decisive goals, and showed character when the team needed it. Sitting a player like that in the name of rotation feels like a mistake in judgment. Mbappé and Vini aren’t rivals on the field, they actually complement each other. Keeping them apart, as if they’re competing, is wasting talent.
And the calendar makes things even sharper. The World Cup is less than a year away. Vinícius needs consistent minutes and confidence to head into the tournament as one of Brazil’s leaders. If he keeps feeling like a second option at Real Madrid, the thought of moving elsewhere could grow stronger. Europe’s top clubs would line up for him. England, in particular, would open its doors without hesitation.