Rivaldo: 'X. Alonso aims to gain the trust of the entire group for Vinicius'

2025-10-31 17:44 © AFP

Legendary Brazil national team footballer Rivaldo commented on the strange relationship between Real Madrid's winger Vinicius and head coach Xabi Alonso:

"I don't know if there is something personal between the two of them, but sometimes it happens that the coach chooses to substitute the most noticeable player. This is to gain the trust of the whole group."

"Vinicius, who was the best player of this team last year, may become the main target because of this."

The Brazilian did not hide his anger after the substitution and initially went straight to the locker room.

25-year-old Vinicius has scored 5 goals in 13 matches this season.