The relationship between Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior and head coach Xabi Alonso has deteriorated following the player\'s angry reaction to being substituted during Sunday\'s Clásico victory over Barcelona, sources told ESPN.
Vinícius was visibly upset when Alonso replaced him with Rodrygo in the 72nd minute at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Madrid leading 2-1. The Brazil international questioned the decision before heading straight down the tunnel without remaining on the bench.
Sources indicate that while the relationship between Alonso and Vinícius has not completely broken down, it has been significantly damaged. The incident marks the latest tension point in what has been a challenging season for the forward under Alonso\'s management.
ESPN previously reported that Vinícius\' camp believe the coach is not a supporter of the player. Talks over a new contract have stalled in recent months, with the forward\'s current deal expiring in 2027.
Alonso has left Vinícius out of the starting lineup three times this season, against Real Oviedo and Getafe in LaLiga, and against Marseille in the Champions League. The 24-year-old has still managed five goals and four assists in LaLiga this campaign.
Sources said Vinícius plans to speak with Madrid teammates about the situation before arranging a face-to-face meeting with Alonso. The squad returns to training Wednesday after two days\' rest following the Clásico.
\"I\'ll focus on a lot of the positive things in the game, and good things from Viní,\" Alonso said in his postgame news conference. \"We\'ll talk about [Viní\'s reaction] of course, but I don\'t want to move the spotlight away from what\'s really important.\"
Madrid\'s victory over Barcelona extended their lead at the top of the LaLiga table to five points.