By goalx365 — November 11, 2025
Allow me a few words — as neutral as possible — far from emotional bias or tactical preferences.
The two main figures here are Jeremy Doku and Vinicius Junior, both facing Liverpool’s right-back Bradley within a span of just three days.
The result? Doku earned a penalty, registered three shots on target, completed seven successful dribbles, scored a brilliant goal, and received the highest match rating — while Bradley ended up booked.
In contrast, Real Madrid had only one shot on target in their clash with Liverpool. Vinicius failed to beat Bradley even once and didn’t deliver the expected performance.
Ironically, the same type of chance Vinicius missed was turned by Doku, days later, into a dangerous shot on goal.
BEYOND THE PITCH
Vinicius Junior has given the Spanish press plenty to discuss during the international break — first with his reaction to being substituted in El Clásico, then with his comments after the Rayo Vallecano match.
These actions aren’t catastrophic, but when you’re The Best Award winner, a Ballon d’Or contender, and one of the team leaders wearing the iconic No. 7, you carry a certain responsibility. You represent the club’s image and your coach, not the controversy.
PLAYER POWER VS. MANAGER AUTHORITY
I’ve always been against players wielding excessive power.
As coach Rúben Amorim once said:
“It’s impossible for management to change 25 players, but they can always change one person — the coach.”
Unfortunately, some Madrid players are living in a bubble of comfort — believing they have the right to play every game, avoid defensive duties, and stay on the pitch regardless of their form.
THE VINICIUS PRIVILEGE
Vinicius might be the most indulged player in modern Real Madrid history.
His outbursts and disciplinary issues have been repeatedly excused, making him believe it’s a privilege, not a problem.
Remember — Florentino Pérez never hesitated to sell stars like Di María, Özil, or even bench legends when necessary.
Yet this time, the club even boycotted the Ballon d’Or gala in solidarity with Vinicius — something never done for icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Ramos, Modrić, or Kroos.
THE ALONSO FACTOR
Still, Vinicius, Bellingham, and Rodrygo remain fan favorites — and that’s fine.
But Real Madrid supporters must understand the real value of their coach: Xabi Alonso.
He’s not just a “promising young coach.”
He’s a world-class legend — World Cup winner, two-time European champion, two-time Champions League winner, and league champion in both Spain and Germany.
In coaching, Alonso already led his previous team to a domestic treble, a 90-point league campaign, unbeaten record, and even reached the Europa League final, defeating giants like Bayern Munich and Inter Milan along the way.
His firm personality is reshaping Madrid.
Within three months, he’s implemented tactical rotation, brought in set-piece specialists, video analysis staff, and promoted young talents like Gonzalo García and Arda Güler.
RESULTS AND THE ROAD AHEAD
Madrid’s current form mirrors the legendary 100-point start under José Mourinho.
If they beat Olympiacos after the break, they’ll likely top their Champions League group.
And with a favorable fixture list — no City, Barça, or Liverpool soon — this could be the perfect window to grow stronger.
I’m not emotionally tied to any club — not Madrid, not Barça, not Liverpool.
But if I had to choose between Vinicius Junior and Xabi Alonso,
I’d choose Alonso — because he represents the future project and long-term identity of Real Madrid.