Vinicius Jr. Freezes Contract Talks and Questions His Role Under Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid

Real Madrid is entering a far more tense moment than their recent results suggest. After three straight matches without scoring, the club now faces another problem: Vinicius Jr. has reportedly paused all contract extension talks, according to The Athletic. At the center of the issue is his relationship with manager Xabi Alonso — a tension that could shape the future of Madrid’s long-term project.

Madrid comes off two underwhelming league draws and a painful Champions League loss to Liverpool — a stretch that has put the manager under scrutiny. The criticism goes beyond tactics — it’s about man-management, hierarchy, and treatment of star players. In this climate, every decision involving a major figure is seen as a message.

According to The Athletic, Vinicius’s camp stopped negotiations due to growing dissatisfaction with Alonso’s handling of his role. The Brazilian’s current deal runs until 2027, but the trust and positive momentum surrounding his renewal have shifted. From Vini’s perspective, his importance within the squad has diminished compared to other attackers.

The turning point came when Alonso substituted Vinicius during El Clásico against Barcelona — despite him being one of the team’s most dangerous attackers. Days later, he started on the bench against Elche, reinforcing the feeling that the coach’s confidence in him has faded. These choices are now viewed as part of a deeper disconnect. Real Madrid sources acknowledge awareness of Vini’s frustration. His camp believes he has suffered the most from Alonso’s tactical approach and selection preferences — a stark contrast to the Carlo Ancelotti era, when Vinicius was nearly untouchable.

The arrival of Kylian Mbappé reshaped the attacking structure — and with it, the distribution of star status. Mbappé is guaranteed a starting role and freedom in attack, while Vinicius now rotates between full matches, early substitutions, or even time on the bench. For a player who was a statistical leader and emotional reference point in recent seasons, this new reality feels like a loss of standing. The report also notes that Jude Bellingham is similarly unhappy with certain coaching decisions. Positional adjustments and rotation policies are generating friction in a dressing room full of elite-level egos. Florentino Pérez and the board now walk a delicate line — protecting their coach while preserving the value and satisfaction of their top assets.

Despite the current unease, all parties still see a path forward. Vinicius would be willing to mend his professional relationship with Alonso — if he sees evidence that the coaching staff once again views him as an indispensable pillar on the same level as the other stars. If that feeling doesn’t return and contract talks remain frozen, summer 2026 begins to look like a decisive moment — a point where Madrid must either fully commit to Vini or consider a sale before his contract enters its final stretch.