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17 hours ago
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Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has praised Vinicius Jr ahead of their crucial Champions League tie against Juventus — and he didn’t hold back on how important the Brazilian has become for Los Blancos.
Madrid may have edged past Getafe with a narrow 1-0 win over the weekend, but it was Vinicius who once again brought chaos, color, and controversy to the pitch.
His late cameo changed the tempo of the game, as his direct play helped Madrid gain control and eventually see out the win.
Speaking to reporters before Wednesday’s Champions League showdown, Alonso said, “Vinicius is crucial and decisive for us. I’m happy to see Vinicius enjoying himself, smiling. We talked about the impact he could have and how he could change the game. His day-to-day performance is good, and he responds very well in games.”
🤍🇧🇷 Xabi Alonso: “Vinicius is crucial and decisive for us. I'm happy to see Vinicius enjoying himself, smiling”.
“We talked about the impact he could have and how he could change the game. His day-to-day performance is good, and he responds very well in games”. pic.twitter.com/AavNRegzLo
It was a clear sign that the new Madrid boss values Vinicius’ spark as much as his skill.
The Brazilian may not score every week like Kylian Mbappe, but he brings a rhythm and flair that gives Madrid’s attack its heartbeat.
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Alonso knows all too well that European nights at the Bernabeu need players who can turn tension into triumph, and Vinicius fits that bill perfectly.
The 25-year-old has a knack for showing up when games get gritty — and against Juventus, Madrid might need another dose of that magic.
The coach’s comments came after a scrappy victory where Madrid looked far from their best. Mbappe scored the winner, but Vinicius’ energy forced two Getafe red cards and helped swing the game back in Madrid’s favor.
Alonso applauded the winger’s mindset, calling him a “game-changer” both on and off the ball.
Xabi Alonso gives an update on Real Madrid's injury news
Meanwhile, the Madrid boss also confirmed that Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Dani Carvajal remain unavailable for the Juventus clash.
“Looking ahead to tomorrow, I don’t think Huijsen, Trent, or Carvajal will be back,” he admitted.
With the first El Clásico of the season around the corner, Alonso is carefully managing his stars. But if there’s one player he trusts to rise to the occasion, it’s Vinicius.
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