Former Real player: Mourinho must make a tough decision on Vinicius

2026-10-26 16:20 © scanpix

Former Real Madrid defender Rafa Alkorta believes forward Vinícius should remain on the bench for the club’s most important matches of the season.

Speaking on a "Cadena SER” program, he discussed yesterday’s El Clásico, in which Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2–1.

"Real did everything right. The starting eleven that played against Barcelona is the best possible lineup for the most important matches.

There is no doubt about it—Vinícius must be on the bench,” Alkorta stated.

The former footballer particularly praised Real’s performance before half-time.

"Real played their best first half of the season. When we talk about leadership, Jude Bellingham has the character of a captain.

Furthermore, in my opinion, Bernardo Silva is an even better playmaker than Arda Güler because he has a better understanding of the demands of the position,” the former Real player explained.

Finally, he was full of praise for Yan Diomande.

"What a great player Diomande is! He is everywhere—helping in defense, contributing to attacks, and constantly posing a threat to the opposition.”