Real Madrid has experienced a week marked by doubts surrounding Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo Goes. Both Brazilian forwards haven't been at their best in recent months and criticism has multiplied regarding their performance. However, Xabi Alonso keeps a clear plan and doesn't seem willing to give up on either of them.
In the match against Mallorca, Vinícius started and played 72 minutes. Rodrygo came on in his place to play the last 18.
Far from seeing a problem in this rotation, the coach considers that it's the ideal way to recover them and return them to their best level.
Xabi Alonso's bet
The white team's coach spoke at a press conference and made his intentions regarding the two Brazilian strikers clear. Xabi Alonso doesn't want to choose between Vinícius and Rodrygo, but he also doesn't plan to line them up together. His idea is for them to compete for the same spot to stimulate their competitive drive.
"He made a good contribution, it was a better match than against Osasuna. That goal was important.
Rodrygo also contributed, we were losing control of the match and everyone came in well. We need that, for people to contribute. Rodrygo had good minutes," the coach explained after the victory.
The phrase sums up the coach's philosophy: every player must add and respond when given the opportunity. For Xabi, internal competition is the best way for both to shine again.
Vinícius, the offensive hope
Real Madrid's number 7 is still considered a game-changing footballer. His ability to break through and his speed down the left wing make him an essential piece for the team. But his inconsistency has sparked debates that reach the offices.
Xabi Alonso doesn't even want to hear about a possible sale of Vinícius. For him, he's an untouchable asset of the club, a player who can still grow much more and who must become decisive again on big European nights.
Rodrygo, the game-changer who needs confidence
Rodrygo's case is different. More intermittent, less explosive, but equally talented. His role at Real Madrid has often been that of a game-changer, but Xabi Alonso believes he can give more.
The intention is for the Brazilian to make the most of every minute he gets and show the consistency he has so often lacked.
The goal and the good feelings against Mallorca are a first step in that direction. The coach insists that the Paulista striker has a lot to contribute and that he must not lose confidence in himself.
Recovering two gems
Xabi Alonso's main goal is to recover the best version of both footballers. Neither Vinícius nor Rodrygo are on the transfer list. The coach has made it clear that he wants them at Real Madrid and that they'll be given the chance to compete for a place in the starting eleven.
For the coach, these two players are assets of the club and it would be a mistake to let them go at a bad time. Real Madrid's immediate future depends on them and the plan is already underway: direct competition as the path to recovery.