A significant reason for Real Madrid’s failure to clinch a major trophy this season was the sharp decline in form of key forward Vinicius Junior.
After vying for the Ballon d’Or as Los Blancos captured both the Champions League and La Liga titles in the 2023-24 season, the Brazilian has struggled to find his best form, contributing to Madrid’s disappointing conclusion under Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure, finishing as runners-up to their fierce rivals Barcelona.
New manager Xabi Alonso expressed his joy at seeing the Brazilian winger rediscover his sparkle as Real Madrid prepares for their Club World Cup last-16 showdown against Juventus on Tuesday.
Should the 24-year-old regain his devastating form, coupled with Kylian Mbappe’s potential return after a stomach illness, Madrid could possess the attacking prowess necessary to triumph in the tournament.
In a recent 3-0 victory over Salzburg, Vinicius not only scored but also provided a backheel assist for Fede Valverde, which secured Madrid’s top position in Group H and allowed them to evade a clash with the formidable Manchester City, who have dominated competition in the United States so far.
“I’m thrilled because Vini, like any striker, needed that goal,” Alonso commented.
Vinicius is currently involved in contract negotiations with Real Madrid, with his existing deal set to expire in 2027.
“I hope to be here for many years. I’ve always maintained that this is the club of my life,” Vinicius remarked earlier this week.
“I’m very happy with the coach and the entire staff, and I wish to continue my journey here.”
For Madrid to succeed, the forward must gel with last summer’s big signing, Mbappe, all while maintaining the team’s defensive framework.
Los Blancos face Juventus in Orlando, with hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals, and may be fortified by the return of star striker Mbappe, who could partner with Vinicius for the first time under Alonso’s management.
Mbappe has been sidelined for all three group matches due to acute gastroenteritis and even required hospitalisation, but is back in training and ready to return.
The Spanish coach believes both players can coexist in the line-up, despite initial challenges stemming from their close playing styles.
After finding his rhythm, Mbappe ended the season with 43 goals in total, while Vinicius managed to net 22 goals but fell short of reaching his peak performance.
“They can certainly make it work, with Vini playing wide and Kylian central… it’s not mutually exclusive; both can coexist and showcase their individual brilliance, provided the team functions effectively,” Alonso elaborated.
‘Defensive Responsibility’
Alonso emphasised that every player in the Real Madrid starting eleven has defensive responsibilities.
Previously, Ancelotti frequently fielded a line-up featuring Vinicius, Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo Goes, which proved costly defensively for Madrid.
“What I’m certain about is that we need every single player to contribute to defending – all 11 players must be engaged defensively,” Alonso stated before the Salzburg match.
The coach praised Vinicius’ commitment during the game against the Austrian side.
“In addition to the goals, I was exceedingly pleased with his work rate,” Alonso added.
“He contributed defensively, made sacrifices, remained engaged with the squad, and didn’t let his focus slip, which is incredibly important to me.”
Alonso will hope to see Vinicius maintain this effort as Mbappe readies to return, potentially coming off the bench against Juventus.
Even though Alonso’s era is just beginning, the encounter against Juventus and a potential quarter-final fixture against Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey will serve as an early assessment of how effectively he can integrate both star players on the pitch.
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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