Something is happening with Vinicius. That is the title of the Brazilian’s film this season at Real Madrid. Things have not gone well this season, not so much because of a lack of quality, which he has in abundance, but more because of the player’s attitude. In the Club World Cup, it was clear that when he put his heart into it, as he did against Salzburg, his performance was remarkable, but in other games his passive attitude and lack of commitment in defense have affected the team. In the game against PSG, Xabi Alonso decided to bench him at halftime, but the truth is that, despite his poor performance, he started in every game of the tournament.
A World Cup with more flaws than highlights
Vinicius’ World Cup has only confirmed what we have been seeing this season. The Brazilian has gone from being on the verge of winning the Ballon d’Or to being a player who has not been decisive for Real Madrid, beyond all the controversies he has been involved in throughout the season.
In the tournament in the United States, the Brazilian started all six games, but only scored one goal and provided one assist. Against PSG, he was substituted in the 65th minute by Brahim after a game in which he shared the attack with Mbappé with poor results.
When he was on the bench, he left an image that went viral and angered Madrid fans, who interpreted it as him talking to Camavinga with the score at 3-0 and laughing, while the Frenchman was very serious. In addition, during the tournament, a couple of videos went viral reflecting his lack of commitment and a certain laziness that has also been questioned by teammates such as Bellingham.
No understanding with Xabi Alonso
Xabi Alonso chose Vini Jr. on the right wing against PSG, but according to the player’s entourage, the player feels uncomfortable on that side, as Miguel Ángel Díaz pointed out on COPE. For the match against the French side, coach Xabi Alonso decided to field Mbappé, Vinicius, and Gonzalo in attack and opted for the Brazilian on the right wing. That doesn’t mean that will now be his position, but Xabi Alonso will have to make decisions.
Xabi Alonso is also said to be unhappy with the player, as the anarchy he displayed during many World Cup matches is not what a coach who wants to play as a unit, as a block in both attack and defense, is looking for.
No agreement on renewal
“Yes, I have a two-year contract… until 2027. I’ve always said that I want to stay here for my entire career and make history with this team,” the player said a few days ago about his future. However, despite rumors in recent weeks that Real Madrid had made a renewal offer and that only a signature was needed, Miguel Ángel Díaz of COPE reports that there is no renewal agreement.
This information comes as no surprise given the player’s demands in this regard. In addition to asking for a salary that would make him the highest paid player on the squad, around €30 million, he has also asked for a renewal bonus never seen before, which Florentino Pérez is not willing to pay. The club is willing to finalize the renewal, despite his performance, but under its conditions.