Vinicius Jr’s future at Real Madrid uncertain amid rift with Xabi Alonso

November 6, 2025 Oliver Obel

Vinicius Jr’s position at Real Madrid appears increasingly uncertain. According to Germany’s BILD newspaper, club executives have discussed the possibility of selling the Brazilian winger as early as next summer. Once hailed as one of football’s most dazzling young talents, the 25-year-old now finds himself struggling for form and influence in a changing Madrid hierarchy.

Since losing the 2023 Ballon d’Or to Rodri, Vinicius has slipped behind new arrivals Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham in manager Xabi Alonso’s long-term plans. BILD reports that Madrid’s leadership had begun evaluating his future even before their 1–0 Champions League defeat to Liverpool — their second straight loss at Anfield.

That match intensified the spotlight. Up against Liverpool defender Conor Bradley, who dominated every duel, Vinicius looked subdued, losing possession repeatedly and failing to register a shot. For many Madrid supporters, it was another night that raised questions about his confidence and discipline rather than his talent.

Flashpoint in El Clásico

Tensions reportedly boiled over during the recent El Clásico. According to BILD, Madrid officials were angered by Vinicius’s outburst after being substituted in the second half. Cameras caught him shouting, “Me? Me? Gaffer, gaffer! Me?” before storming down the tunnel, adding, “It’s always me. I’m leaving the team. I’d better leave.”

He later apologised both publicly and privately to Alonso. Still, unease lingered. On the same day, The Athletic published an article claiming that several players were unhappy with Alonso’s strict coaching style — and, as BILD notes, club insiders suspect that people close to Vinicius may have contributed to the leak.

Such suspicions, fair or not, have deepened the sense of mistrust around the player.

The Penalty Incident

If Madrid hoped the controversy would fade, it didn’t. During the club’s recent La Liga clash with Valencia, Vinicius stepped up to take a penalty normally reserved for Mbappé — and missed. Spanish media reported that the incident frustrated both Alonso and several teammates.

For a squad that had won 13 of its previous 14 matches before the defeat at Anfield, the scene stood out as a rare moment of internal discord. Club president Florentino Pérez now appears to have firmly thrown his support behind Alonso, signaling a clear shift in internal priorities.

A Storied Yet Uncertain Future

With only one year remaining on his contract next summer, Madrid may decide it’s time to cash in rather than risk a diminished return later. Despite his impressive record — 111 goals and 87 assists in 337 appearances, along with two Champions League titles — his current situation could reduce his estimated £132 million market value.

Still, few clubs would ignore the chance to sign a player of his calibre. As one Spanish commentator put it, “Vinicius remains a generational talent — but Madrid’s patience has limits.”

Whether he stays or goes, the coming months will determine if Vinicius Jr can restore his standing at the Bernabéu or start anew elsewhere in Europe.

Sources: BILD, The Athletic, BBC, Reuters