Vinicius Jr’s reduced minutes a coaching decision, not a Real Madrid mandate

Real Madrid are not responsible for Vinicius Junior’s reduced playing time, according to The Athletic.

Los Blancos continued their flying start to the season with a 2-0 win against Espanyol on Saturday, maintaining their unblemished La Liga record.

However, much of the attention has been drawn to Vinicius’ situation. He hasn’t completed a game under manager Xabi Alonso this season, and that continued over the weekend.

The winger was replaced by his compatriot Rodrygo in the 77th minute.

Vinicius couldn’t hide his frustration as he made his way off the pitch. He caused a scene on the touchline, fuelling ongoing debate about his future under Alonso.

It also came just days after he was left out of the starting line-up for Madrid’s Champions League curtain raiser against Olympique Marseille in midweek.

Alonso played down the touchline fiasco after the game, claiming that Vinicius wasn’t the only one unhappy that he had to make way.

Franco Mastantuono also cut a frustrated figure when Brahim Diaz replaced him alongside Vinicius.

“Today, all he lacked was a goal,” Alonso said. “I substituted him when he was at his best – maybe I could have waited. Franco was also angry. He didn’t leave very happy.”

Behind the scenes, there are whispers that Vinicius’ reduced playing time is part of the club’s strategy to get him to sign a new contract.

The 25-year-old has two years left on his contract, and Madrid have been trying to tie him to a new deal, but negotiations have been far from straightforward.

However, Vinicius’ reduced playing time is purely Alonso’s call. Vinicius hasn’t had 90 minutes of football since Alonso replaced Carlo Ancelotti.

The player’s camp understands that this season will be challenging and that competition for places is fierce, especially with Kylian Mbappe in fantastic form.

Despite his ongoing situation, Vinicius has returned two goals and two assists in five La Liga games.