Vinicius Junior has come under heavy criticism but Xabi Alonso is counting on him to shine for Real Madrid moving forward. The Brazilian was booed by some fans in the 5-1 win over Real Betis which was his 18th appearance without a goal.
The 25-year-old's goal drought has been a real concern and his performances haven't been at the level expected of him. He has cut a frustrated figure on several occasions this season, especially when he sees his number come up on the touchline and he's subbed off.
Adding to his difficulties in front of goal is talk over his future at the Bernabeu. There has been recent talk of Chelsea preparing an audacious €160m offer.
Alonso backing Vinicius to bounce back
Xabi Alonso has responded to speculation over Vinicus' future and question marks over his form by insisting he's backing the Brazilian to come good. He told reporters ahead of the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid (via Fabrizio Romano):
“Vini Jr is going to be important. We need him at his best, enjoying himself on the pitch. When he does, he gives us that edge. We have to find him. He’s fundamental for us."
🚨🇧🇷 Xabi Alonso: “Vini Jr is going to be important. We need him at his best, enjoying himself on the pitch”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 7, 2026
“When he does, he gives us that edge. We have to find him. He’s fundamental for us”. pic.twitter.com/fHuvNxMj03
Alonso must be frustrated he's not been able to coach Vinicius at his best. He's been a talisman for Madrid over the years and was crucial during Carlo Ancelotti's second reign.
Vinicius has managed five goals and as many assists in 19 La Liga games. He is one of the very best in the world but Alonso will be desperate for him to bounce back into form.
Vinicius' Atletico Madrid record a concern
The Madrid derby promises to be an exciting affair in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Thursday. There are reports suggesting Diego Simeone will use Marcos Llorente to try and nullify Vinicius' threat.
Atleti have rarely struggled to keep the 2024 Ballon d'Or runner up quiet as he has a poor goalscoring record against Simeone's men. He has managed just one goal in 18 meetings, which is shocking given he's been deadly against other rivals.
Vinicius has an excellent record against Barcelona, bagging seven goals in 22 games. His performances against the Catalans are often key in El Clasico and Alonso will be looking for him to replicate such displays tomorrow.
Gonzalo Garcia is set to lead the line after his hat-trick heroics against Betis last weekend. The Spanish striker has replaced Kylian Mbappe in Alonso's starting lineup following the Frenchman's injury.