Real Madrid have put an end to an irregular season that left mixed feelings among the board. The lack of titles has forced a deep restructuring that starts on the bench, where Xabi Alonso replaces Carlo Ancelotti. The club aims to begin a new era marked by order, youth, and attacking soccer.
The focus is already on the next big challenge: the new Club World Cup to be held in the United States. This will be the first serious test for the new coaching staff to assess the collective performance. Above all, to measure the individual commitment of players like Vinícius Júnior.
Xabi Alonso prepares for his debut on the big stage
Training sessions will resume on June 9 with a group still incomplete due to international commitments. The team will travel five days later to the United States, where the group stage will begin. The confirmed opponents are Al Hilal, Pachuca, and Salzburg in a demanding schedule.
Xabi Alonso wants to use this tournament to define key roles within the new tactical setup. His idea is to establish a more vertical system and faster offensive transitions. To achieve this, he needs his wingers in top form and fully committed to the cause.
Vinícius Júnior has experienced a season full of ups and downs, both on and off the field. His performance has been far from his best, affected by injuries and internal controversies. Despite everything, he remains a essential piece in the white attack.
The Brazilian has been tempted by astronomical offers from Saudi Arabia, with figures that exceed any market logic. However, he has decided to stay at Madrid and postpone any negotiations until after the World Cup. The goal: to focus on performing at his best under the new coach.
A contract that could break historical records
The club and the player's camp agree on the desire to renew until 2030 with a significant salary increase. There is talk of a net salary close to €30 million per season, something never seen before at the white club. The renewal, however, will only be signed if Vinícius proves himself during the tournament.
The winger will not only have to shine on the field, but also show maturity and leadership in the locker room. Xabi Alonso has named him as one of the four team captains for this new era. That trust must translate into performance and exemplary behavior.
The international tournament will serve as a barometer to assess the real level of the project at its outset. It will also be a perfect showcase for players who want to establish themselves as leaders. Vinícius knows that all eyes are on him and he can't afford another slump.
The Brazilian hopes to sign his new contract as soon as the competition ends, if everything goes as planned. The club is convinced that the renewal is strategic, but they won't execute it without proof on the field. It will be an act of faith, but also a bet based on tangible results.
Madrid needs stability and symbols
After a titleless campaign, the club needs to regain stability and build a project with strong symbols. Vinícius is expected to be one of those references, as long as he performs and keeps his commitment. The arrival of Mbappé is not an obstacle, but an ideal complement to his game.
For now, the renewal remains on hold, but the intention is clear on both sides. Vinícius wants to stay and become a legend at Bernabéu, and the club wants him to be. The outcome will come after the Club World Cup, when it will be decided whether the Brazilian's future will remain white.