The new season for Real Madrid has started with several points of focus. The signings, the arrival of young talents, and the presence of Xabi Alonso as the leader on the bench have sparked debate in the Madrid environment. However, there is an issue that directly affects the core of the team and is already on the lips of all Madridists: the distribution of roles between Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo Goes.
Both Brazilians have been key pieces in the Madrid project over the past years. However, the technical decisions of the coach from Donostia point to a different scenario. No one will have a guaranteed starting spot, and the message coming from the locker room is clear: No one can relax here.
A more expensive left wing than ever
During recent seasons, Vinícius had hardly faced any competition in his natural position. The left flank was reserved for him, and there were rarely any doubts about his presence in the starting eleven. However, with Xabi Alonso's arrival, the privileges are over.
The coach understands that the position where Rodrygo performs best is precisely that left wing. For this reason, he has decided that the former Santos player will be Vinícius's natural replacement. The immediate consequence is clear: If one plays, the other will watch the match from the bench.
At Real Madrid, there is an awareness that this situation may generate debate. However, it is also accepted that internal competition is necessary to keep the level high in a season full of demands.
The right, a territory for the young
Meanwhile, the right wing will be in the hands of Mastantuono, Arda Güler, and Brahim Díaz. Xabi Alonso has determined that in that area of the field, the young talents who represent the club's future will alternate. Mastantuono is set to be one of the great breakthroughs, while Güler and Brahim already showed last season that they can make a difference.
This way, Rodrygo moves away from the right, where in recent years he alternated minutes with varying degrees of success.
Vinícius doesn't hide
The change of plans fully affects Vinícius, who until now lived with the security of being untouchable. Xabi Alonso wants to put an end to that dynamic and seeks for the Brazilian to always keep his competitive edge. The coach's message was clear: "No one has a guaranteed spot here."
Sources close to the locker room confirm that both Vinícius and Rodrygo have accepted the decision. The friendship that unites them has made the process easier, although it doesn't mean the competition won't be fierce. For Madrid, the conclusion is simple: Whoever wins the battle, the team will come out stronger.