Xabi Alonso gives a Real Madrid–type answer to Vinicius’ frustration after sideline outburst

The Bernabéu roared again, and Xabi Alonso finally got his first taste of victory in the Clásico. Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Barcelona wasn’t just three points, it was a statement of identity, intensity, and evolution under a coach who keeps his emotions guarded, even when his players don’t.

But while Madrid celebrated reclaiming the top of LaLiga with 27 points to Barça’s 22, the spotlight once again turned to Vinicius Jr., who left the pitch in visible frustration after being subbed off in the second half. Cameras caught every grimace, every word under his breath, and every bit of tension that’s been building between the star winger and his manager.

“Different characters, same goal,” said Alonso

Asked directly about the Brazilian’s reaction, Alonso kept his composure and his message short.

“I’ll take a lot of positives from both the game and from Vini,” he told reporters. “We’ll talk about it privately, but I don’t want to lose focus on what matters. Some players express themselves differently, that’s normal.”

It’s not the first time friction has shown between the two. Earlier this month, a similar exchange happened when Vinicius was replaced against Espanyol. Yet Alonso’s answer this time carried a subtle tone of control, the kind that says he’s managing personalities, not just tactics.

The Clásico test: passion, ego, and new leadership

When pressed by the media, Alonso refused to fuel the fire.

“It’s football. There’s always tension in Clásicos. Things happen, and they’ll keep happening, it’s part of the passion,” he said. “As long as it stays healthy, there’s no problem. I saw it as part of the moment, nothing more.”

Inside the locker room, the message was likely clearer: the team’s spirit matters more than any player’s frustration. And if there’s one thing Alonso learned from his playing days under Guardiola and Mourinho, it’s that even winning teams need conflict to evolve.

The project takes shape

Beyond the headlines, this win was massive for Madrid. It broke a five-match drought against Barcelona and marked a turning point for Alonso’s tenure, proof that his methods are beginning to translate on the biggest stage.

“We worked with conviction. The team pressed, created, and showed energy,” he reflected. “The connection with the fans tonight was special. The project is just starting, but nights like this build belief.”

And maybe that’s the real story here. Not the outburst, not the quotes, but the shift. Real Madrid looks like a team under construction that already believes it’s a finished product.

The crystal ball

If you read between the lines, Alonso’s message is clear: this isn’t just about managing Vinicius, it’s about managing a generation. Madrid’s next chapter is being written by a former player who once controlled the midfield and now controls the chaos.

The Clásico might have been his first battle won. But the real war, keeping egos aligned with ambition, has only just begun.