Paco González has disclosed the actual beginning of the tension between Vinicius Junior and Xabi Alonso, stating it did not originate during the El Clásico match against FC Barcelona as widely reported.
According to González, a journalist for Cadena COPE cited by Mundo Deportivo, the conflict between the Real Madrid winger and the then-head coach began months earlier, during the lead-up to a Club World Cup match.
González explained that Alonso had initially planned to start Kylian Mbappé and Gonzalo García together in attack, with Vinicius relegated to the bench. This prospect reportedly upset the Brazilian player, prompting Alonso to revise his plans and include Vinicius in the starting lineup.
The journalist emphasized that although Vinicius’ substitution during the El Clásico and his subsequent reaction — including the now-viral comment “Vai tomar no cu!” — intensified public scrutiny, it was not the root cause of the strained relationship.
Football Espana corroborated González’s account, reporting that the problems between Vinicius and Alonso started during last summer’s Club World Cup, when Alonso had only recently taken charge of the team.
The outlet noted that Vinicius “blew up at the prospect of being benched” in favor of the Mbappé-García attacking duo, which led Alonso to adjust his selection and start the Brazilian instead.
This early-season friction contributed to broader concerns about Alonso’s ability to manage high-profile personalities in the dressing room, a factor cited in his eventual departure after the Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona in January.
Since Alonso’s exit, Real Madrid have experienced further difficulties under Alvaro Arbeloa, including a decline in the La Liga title race and eliminations from the Champions League and Copa del Rey by Bayern Munich and Albacete, respectively.
The revelation adds context to one of the most talked-about moments of the season, shifting focus from the El Clásico incident to earlier decisions that shaped the player-coach dynamic.
As the season progresses, the lingering effects of this unresolved tension continue to influence discussions about squad harmony and leadership at the club.
Stay tuned for updates on Real Madrid’s next match and official club communications regarding team dynamics.
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