Vinicius Jr’s Decline in Real Madrid’s Starting XI: Factors Behind His Loss of Playing Time

Real Madrid’s Alonso Faces Vinicius Jr. Challenge: Passion, Position, and Potential Shift in Dynamics

LOS ANGELES, CA – Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is navigating a delicate situation with star winger Vinicius Jr., balancing the Brazilian’s undeniable passion with the need to optimize team performance. Initial impressions of Vinicius jr.have been overwhelmingly positive, with Alonso promptly recognizing the player’s character and intensity.

“I had seen him a lot and everything I saw and heard I recognised in 10 seconds: the way he is, the way he communicates with people,” Alonso stated, emphasizing his appreciation for Vinicius Jr.’s commitment. “He is a very passionate player. You have to be close to him, I like to have this kind of player. How we can use him in the best way and position is what we have to see now. What we have felt these days is that he has a very good heart.”

However, recent pre-season performances in the United states have prompted tactical considerations.Despite being named player of the match against Red Bull Salzburg with a goal and an assist, Vinicius Jr.’s overall output in five games wasn’t enough to secure his starting position for the planned semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain.A late injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold unexpectedly altered those plans, forcing alonso to deploy Vinicius Jr. on the right wing – a departure from his established role on the left. Sources indicate the decision was met with disappointment from the Brazilian, who has consistently thrived on the left flank.

The arrival of Kylian Mbappé further complicates the equation. While club sources are keen to stress the importance of both players, Alonso is exploring options to integrate them effectively into the attack.Tactical flexibility will be key,with the coach expected to vary formations throughout the season.

Beyond the Immediate Lineup: The Evolving Role of Modern Wingers

This situation highlights a broader trend in modern football: the increasing demand for versatility from attacking players. The traditional role of a winger, focused solely on beating defenders and delivering crosses, is evolving.Today’s top wingers are expected to contribute defensively, participate in intricate passing sequences, and adapt to multiple positions.

vinicius Jr.’s success hinges on his ability to embrace this evolution. While his raw pace and dribbling skills remain remarkable, refining his decision-making, positional awareness, and defensive contributions will be crucial.

Moreover, the potential for a shift in Vinicius Jr.’s “irreplaceable” status underscores the competitive nature of elite football. alonso’s willingness to consider choice options demonstrates a commitment to prioritizing team cohesion and tactical balance.

The coming season will be a defining period for Vinicius jr., testing his adaptability and solidifying his place as a key figure in Real Madrid’s attack. The dynamic between him and Mbappé, and Alonso’s ability to harness their combined talents, will be a major storyline to watch as Real Madrid aims for continued success.

[image of Vinicius Jr. in training this week. Madrid start the new season on August 19 (Antonio Villalba/Real Madrid via Getty Images)]

(Top photo: David Ramos/Getty Images)

What tactical adjustments by Carlo Ancelotti have influenced Vinicius Jr.’s role and playing time at Real Madrid?

Shifting Tactical Approaches Under Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid has always prioritized tactical flexibility.While vinicius Jr. thrived in earlier systems leveraging his pace and direct running, recent shifts have subtly diminished his impact. The emergence of players like Raphinha – as highlighted in comparisons on sites like Transfermarkt – offers Ancelotti choice options on the wing. This isn’t necessarily a “decline” for Vinicius, but a outcome of a manager adapting to the squad’s evolving strengths and weaknesses.

Emphasis on Positional Play: Ancelotti has increasingly favored a more structured, positional-based approach, notably in big games. This demands wingers who consistently maintain shape and contribute defensively, areas were Vinicius historically hasn’t been as strong.

Counter-Attacking evolution: While Real Madrid remains dangerous on the break, the style has become more nuanced. It’s less about relying solely on Vinicius’s explosive runs and more about coordinated movements and passing combinations.

Midfield Control: A stronger emphasis on midfield dominance means the wingers are sometimes asked to play a more supportive role, linking play rather than being the primary outlet.

The Rise of Competition: Raphinha and Beyond

The transfer market and internal development have created significant competition for Vinicius Jr.’s spot. Raphinha’s arrival, in particular, has presented a direct challenge.

comparing Vinicius Jr. and Raphinha

Transfermarkt’s player comparison reveals key differences. While Vinicius excels in dribbling and pace, Raphinha often demonstrates greater consistency in crossing, shooting accuracy, and overall defensive contribution. This versatility makes Raphinha a more tactically adaptable option for Ancelotti.

Raphinha’s Tactical Flexibility: Raphinha can play on either wing, and even as a false nine, offering Ancelotti more options.

Defensive Work Rate: Raphinha consistently demonstrates a higher work rate defensively, tracking back and contributing to pressing.

Set-Piece Delivery: Raphinha’s remarkable set-piece delivery adds another dimension to Real Madrid’s attack.

Beyond Raphinha, the emergence of young talents within the Real Madrid academy also adds pressure. Players eager to prove themselves are constantly vying for opportunities, forcing Vinicius to maintain peak performance to retain his place.

Performance Fluctuations and Consistency Concerns

While undeniably talented, Vinicius Jr.’s form has been inconsistent. Periods of brilliance are often followed by stretches where he struggles to impact games. This inconsistency has been a major factor in his reduced playing time.

1. Decision-Making in the final Third: Critics often point to Vinicius’s sometimes erratic decision-making in the final third – choosing to dribble when a pass might be more effective, or vice versa.
2. conversion Rate: His goal-scoring record, while improving, hasn’t always matched the quality of his chances created. A lower conversion rate puts pressure on his position.
3. Dependence on Space: Vinicius thrives in open space, but struggles when tightly marked. Opponents have increasingly focused on denying him that space, neutralizing his threat.

Injury Concerns and Physical Demands

The relentless schedule of modern football takes a toll on players. Vinicius Jr. has faced several injury setbacks in recent seasons, impacting his consistency and availability.

Muscle Fatigue: His explosive style of play puts significant strain on his muscles, making him susceptible to fatigue-related injuries.

Impact of International Duty: Frequent international commitments with Brazil add to the physical demands, potentially increasing the risk of injury.

Rotation Policy: Ancelotti’s rotation policy, while intended to manage player fatigue, inevitably leads to Vinicius being rested in certain matches, giving opportunities to his rivals.

The Psychological factor: Pressure and Expectations

Playing for Real Madrid comes with immense pressure and expectations. Vinicius Jr., as a high-profile player, is constantly under scrutiny.

Media Criticism: Intense media coverage can amplify any perceived shortcomings,impacting a player’s confidence.

Fan Expectations: The demanding Real Madrid fanbase expects consistent excellence, and any dip in form is quickly noticed.

self-Doubt: The pressure to perform can sometimes lead to self-doubt, affecting a player’s decision-making and overall performance.

Real-World Example: The 2024 Champions League Quarter-Finals

During the 2024 Champions league quarter-finals against manchester City,Vinicius Jr.was noticeably less influential in the second leg compared to his usual standards. Ancelotti opted for a more cautious approach, prioritizing defensive solidity, and Raphinha’s defensive contributions were deemed more valuable in that specific context. This tactical decision highlighted the growing competition and Ancelotti’s willingness to adapt his lineup based on the opponent and the game situation.