Real Madrid: Vinicius starts on the bench in Oviedo, Xabi Alonso explains

Europe 25 August 2025 at 05:47

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

Xabi Alonso discussed his decision to start the match against Real Oviedo without Vinicius Jr on Sunday night in La Liga.

This Sunday, during Real Madrid's trip to Oviedo (0-3), Xabi Alonso opted to leave winger Vinicius out of his starting lineup. The Brazilian, who began the match on the bench, came on in the 63rd minute. The Spanish manager explained his choice regarding the Brazilian international, who provided an assist and scored a goal.

"Changes from one match to another depend on our workload requirements and the opponent. I haven't made any decisions for next month. It's important for players to feel valued and ready for the upcoming game. That's essential to maintain the team's performance stability. This match showed us that we are continuing to progress. (...) Vinicius hasn't been on the bench due to a technical decision in the last four years? Everyone is different, and you have to demand respect, then the relationship is a bit different. In football, decisions are made with the team in mind, and that needs to be understood," Xabi Alonso explained.