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Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr has reportedly informed the club that he does not intend to extend his current contract at the Santiago Bernabéu, citing a strained relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso. The Brazilian star is said to be among five senior players who are dissatisfied with the new manager’s approach since Alonso took over from Carlo Ancelotti during the summer.

Focus on Vinicius and Alonso in Madrid

Vinicius’s existing contract runs until 2027, and no agreement to prolong his stay has been reached. As per reports by The Athletic, the winger has told Los Blancos that he will not consider a renewal “as long as his relationship with coach Alonso remains tense.” The friction between the two became evident during Real Madrid’s Clasico victory over Barcelona earlier this season, when Vinicius appeared visibly upset after being substituted in the second half. Although he later issued a public apology for his outburst, he notably omitted any mention of Alonso in his statement, sparking further speculation about their relationship.

Alonso responds to the Clasico incident

In the aftermath, Alonso attempted to downplay the controversy. Speaking to the media, he said, “On Wednesday we had a meeting with all the players, and Vinicius was excellent, impeccable. He spoke sincerely and from the heart, and for me, the matter is resolved.”

He added, “For me, Vinicius’s apology was very valuable and positive. It showed honesty. What matters most is what he said to his teammates, the club, and the supporters. For me, the issue is closed.”

Real Madrid decided not to impose any disciplinary action on Vinicius for his reaction, with Alonso confirming, “It’s settled; there will be no repercussions.”

Discontent among Real Madrid stars?

According to Mundo Deportivo, Vinicius is not the only player unhappy with Alonso’s management. Jude Bellingham, Fede Valverde, Endrick, and Rodrygo are also believed to share a less-than-ideal relationship with the coach. Rodrygo, who was subject to transfer speculation over the summer, has started only three La Liga matches this season, while young forward Endrick is reported to be close to a loan move to Lyon. Meanwhile, Valverde has had to publicly deny rumours that he refused to play in a defensive role under Alonso.

Real Madrid’s inconsistent results this season have already placed Alonso’s position under pressure. A defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League, followed by a goalless draw against Rayo Vallecano at Vallecas, failed to impress supporters dissatisfied with the team’s current playing style. The team then played out a 2-2 draw against Elche, salvaging a point thanks to a late equaliser from Bellingham.

Alonso explains Vinicius’s benching

After the draw with Elche, Alonso addressed questions about his decision to start Vinicius on the bench once again. He explained, “No, we had discussed it. We talk about it regularly. He understood the role he could play. We’ve done this before, like in Getafe. Today we’re disappointed, but everyone is motivated to bounce back.”

Alonso also insisted that his bond with the players is improving. He said, “We haven’t broken apart; we’re still competing. Every match has its own context. Results matter, and we’re self-critical. The spirit within the team is strong; we must respond to challenges. This is Real Madrid—we live with criticism and strive to improve.”

He continued, “The connection within the group is strengthening. We spend more time together, understand each other better, and share the same goals. We celebrate wins together and feel the pain of not winning. The connection is good. We need to change this situation, starting with the match in Athens.”

What lies ahead: Real Madrid head to Greece

Real Madrid will look to get back to winning ways on Wednesday in their Champions League clash against Olympiacos. Attention will be on Alonso’s team selection to see if Vinicius returns to the starting lineup. Anything less than a victory will pile further pressure on the manager and his players, especially with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City awaiting them next in the Champions League.