Softfootball understands that Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has made it clear that Vinicius Jr remains a central figure at the club, even as criticism from sections of the fanbase continues to grow.
The conversation picked up after Madrid’s convincing 5–1 win over Real Betis earlier this month. Speaking in a recent press conference, as reported by Fabrizio Romano via his official X account, Alonso underlined how much the team still relies on the winger.
He said:
Xabi Alonso: Vini Jr is going to be important. We need him at his best, enjoying himself on the pitch. When he does, he gives us that edge. We have to find him. He’s fundamental for us.
Vinicius, substituted late in the match, was met with whistles from parts of the Bernabéu crowd. It was an uncomfortable moment, especially given what the winger has already achieved in a Madrid shirt.
The Brazilian has now gone 15 matches without a goal, a dry spell that has tested patience and sparked plenty of debate online and in the stands. While the goals haven’t been flowing, Alonso and his staff continue to point at the less obvious details.
Vinicius still stretches defences, still draws fouls, and still forces opponents into uncomfortable positions. Sometimes that doesn’t show up on the scoresheet, and sometimes fans don’t really want to hear it, but it matters all the same.Statistically, his form has dipped, and that has naturally fuelled talk about his future.
With his contract running until 2027 and no renewal agreed yet, rumours linking him to Chelsea have been dismissed. Some feel the pressure is getting to him; others think it’s just a phase that happens to even the best players. What’s clear is that Alonso isn’t interested in panic.
With big fixtures ahead, including the Spanish Supercup semi-final against Atlético Madrid, the manager is focused on keeping the group together. He believes backing players through rough patches is part of the job, not something to avoid. For now, Vinicius stays right at the heart of Madrid’s plans.
