Real Madrid maintained their strong start to the season with a 2-0 victory over RCD Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabeu. Goals from Eder Militao and summer signing Kylian Mbappe secured the sixth win in all competitions for Los Blancos, keeping them firmly in contention at the top of La Liga.
The performance underlined Real Madrid’s ability to control matches and deliver decisive moments even without being at their absolute best. Militao’s towering header opened the scoring before Mbappe added a second, courtesy of some clever play by Vinicius Jr, who provided the assist. For all the positives, however, the post-match narrative shifted away from the result and once again onto the Brazilian forward.
Vinicius’ reaction to being substituted overshadowed the comfortable win and has now raised new questions about his role under head coach Xabi Alonso.
Vinicius Jr Returns to Starting XI
After being left out of the starting lineup in Real Madrid’s midweek clash with Marseille, Vinicius Jr was restored to the XI against Espanyol. The Brazilian forward looked sharp and lively, frequently driving at defenders and linking up well with Mbappe and Jude Bellingham. His assist for Mbappe’s goal was a reminder of his ability to influence games with flair and creativity.
For the first 70 minutes, Vinicius appeared to be enjoying himself again after a slow start to the season. He pressed with intensity, took on his markers, and created openings for his teammates. Given his performance, many expected him to play deep into the second half.
However, Xabi Alonso’s decision during the hydration break to withdraw the Brazilian in the 77th minute came as a shock to both the player and the fans inside the Bernabeu.
Substitution Sparks Visible Frustration
The substitution of Vinicius did not sit well with the 24-year-old forward. According to reports from MARCA, Vinicius showed immediate frustration when Alonso informed him of the change. He threw his water bottle to the ground, raised his arms in disbelief, and walked straight towards the dressing room after leaving the pitch.
Though he later returned to sit with his teammates on the bench, the gesture highlighted his growing dissatisfaction. What makes the situation unusual is the fact that Vinicius has not completed a single 90-minute match this season under Alonso, despite previously being a near ever-present under Carlo Ancelotti.
For a player accustomed to being Madrid’s attacking focal point and one of La Liga’s most feared wingers, this reduction in minutes represents a significant shift in status.
Alonso Explains His Decision
In his post-match press conference, Xabi Alonso attempted to downplay the controversy. He admitted that the substitution may have been premature but insisted it was a tactical choice aimed at controlling the game in the closing stages.
“He lacked goalscoring today. I thought bringing in players on the outside as substitutes would help us manage the tempo,” Alonso explained. “Maybe I substituted him when he was at his best, maybe I substituted him a little too early. It happens to everyone.”
The coach also pointed out that Franco, another player substituted in the match, also left the field visibly upset. “I’m happy with both Vini and Franco’s performance. We just needed fresh legs because the season is very long,” he added.
Alonso’s calm explanation did little to hide the fact that Real Madrid’s star winger remains unsettled by his current role in the squad.
A Shift From the Ancelotti Era
Under Carlo Ancelotti, Vinicius was considered untouchable. He regularly played full 90-minute matches and was relied upon to decide big games with his dribbling and explosive pace. The winger’s development under the Italian coach elevated him into one of the most valuable players in the world.
Since Alonso’s appointment, however, there has been a noticeable change in approach. The new manager has emphasized rotation, often withdrawing key players earlier in matches to maintain freshness throughout the campaign. While this strategy may serve the team in the long run, it has unsettled players like Vinicius, who are unaccustomed to reduced minutes.
The Brazilian’s frustration is not just about fitness or rhythm — it is about status. Being substituted regularly sends a message that his role has shifted, and that is a difficult adjustment for a player used to being the face of the team’s attack.
Implications for Vinicius and Real Madrid
The bigger concern for Real Madrid lies beyond the touchline drama. Vinicius Jr is a cornerstone of the club’s present and future, and any sense of discontent could have long-term consequences. With contract talks reportedly on the horizon, his reduced playing time under Alonso could complicate negotiations.
For supporters, Vinicius’ reaction is a reminder of the fine balance required in managing elite talents. A player of his caliber thrives on confidence, consistency, and responsibility. If those elements are disrupted, it risks creating friction at a time when Real Madrid cannot afford internal distractions.
As the season progresses, the relationship between Alonso and Vinicius will be closely monitored. Whether the coach’s rotation policy proves beneficial or becomes a source of conflict remains to be seen. What is certain is that Real Madrid’s victories are beginning to feel overshadowed by headlines about one of their brightest stars.
