Real Madrid's Vinicius opens up on Alonso rift

Real Madrid's Vinicius opens up on Alonso rift

Xinhua
06 Apr 2026, 20:45 GMT+

MADRID, April 6 (Xinhua) -- Real Madrid's Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr admitted on Monday that he had a difficult relationship with former coach Xabi Alonso, but insisted he gets on much better with current coach Alvaro Arbeloa.

Speaking to the press ahead of Real Madrid's Champions League quarterfinal first leg at home to Bayern Munich, Vinicius was asked about his relationship with Alonso, who was sacked in January after just over seven months in the job.

The forward drew controversy with his angry reaction after being substituted in the second half of the first meeting of the season between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona in October, and admitted that although "every coach has their method," he "didn't connect with him the way he (Alonso) wanted."

He said his problems with Alonso were a "learning experience," but added that he now has a "special connection" with former B-team boss Arbeloa.

"He's always made it clear what he wants from me. I've always given my best, and I'm going to continue doing so... I've learned from this rough patch, and I want to keep learning. The best players always bounce back," commented Vinicius.

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