At a glance
- Ahead of a Champions League quarterfinal clash against Bayern Munich, Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. admitted he trouble connecting with former head coach Xabi Alonso.
- Despite this, the Brazilian claimed to have grown as a person.
- Vini also offered support to FC Barcelona rival Lamine Yamal.
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr. admitted to having a difficult relationship with previous head coach Xabi Alonso during a prematch press conference on Monday.
As he previewed a Champions League quarterfinal clash with Bayern Munich, reporters asked the Brazilian why he didn’t bid farewell to Alonso on social media following his January dismissal.
“I played game, but few minutes,” Vinicius said. “Each coach has his methods and I didn’t connect the way he wanted. But it was a learning experience and I hope I can continue with [Alvaro] Arbeloa, who I have a wonderful connection with him and has always given me confidence.
On whether an underfire Arbeloa understands him better, Vinicius explained he has a “special connection” with the Madrid manager as he did with his current Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti.
“He’s always made it clear to me what he wants from me. I have always given my best and I will continue to do so. I don’t think I’ve ever gone so long without scoring goals. I’ve learned from this bad moment and I want to continue learning. The best players always turn things around,” the Ballon d’Or runner up reminded us.
Vinicius reiterated a desire to renew at Real Madrid
Vinicius’ contract situation is a hot topic at Valdebebas. Once again, though, the 25-year-old expressed plans to sign on the dotted line and extend his current terms beyond mid-2027.
“I hope I can stay here for a long time. I still have a year left on my contract, but I’m very calm. I have the confidence of the president. At the right time I will renew and I will stay here for a long time. Because it is the club of my dreams,” Vinicius beamed.
Vinicius offered support to Barcelona rival Lamine Yamal
United in the fight against racism no matter their club colours, Vinicius backed his FC Barcelona rival Lamine Yamal.
The teenager had to endure anti-Muslim chants during Spain playing Egypt midweek, and then racist insults hurled at him in a 2-1 La Liga win over Atletico Madrid on Saturday.
“It’s a complicated issue and it’s happened many times,” Vinicius said. “Hopefully Lamine can also continue this fight. We have money, but poor blacks have more difficulties than we do.
“I’m not saying that Spain, Germany or Portugal are racist countries. But there are racists in every country, and if we fight together I hope that other players and people stop suffering these things,” Vinicius added.
