Xabi Alonso (L) and Vinicius (R) are reportedly having a fallout
Vinicius Junior has made it clear to Real Madrid that he does not intend to renew his contract while his relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso remains strained.
The message was reportedly delivered during a conversation with club president Florentino Pérez in late October, according to sources close to the meeting.
Tensions between the player and coach have been simmering for months, dating back to Real Madrid’s 4-0 defeat by Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final on July 9, 2025.
Alonso had initially planned to bench Vinicius but was forced to start him due to an injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold. Since then, the Brazilian has started only five of Madrid’s 17 games this season, often appearing on the bench, and has grown increasingly frustrated with rotation decisions.
The issue came to a head after the 2-1 Clasico victory over Barcelona on October 26. Angered by being substituted in the 72nd minute, Vinicius stormed off the pitch and shouted: “Always me, I’m leaving the team, it’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.”
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Following the match, he apologised to Pérez but notably omitted Alonso’s name in a social media apology, a deliberate move, according to sources.
Vinicius Jr.’s contract runs until June 2027. While Madrid has offered a renewal with a salary increase to €20 million net per year, the Brazilian’s representatives reportedly requested a historic deal worth up to €30 million per season, including performance bonuses and a renewal bonus unprecedented at the club.
Sources insist Vinicius’ reluctance to commit is not merely a negotiating tactic.
“He does not think that extending is the right option for him right now, given his relationship with Alonso,” one source said.
With the situation unresolved, tension continues to simmer inside the club, raising questions about how Real Madrid will manage one of its brightest stars while maintaining harmony under Alonso’s leadership.
FKA/MA
