ESPN confirm that “Alonso had become a negative factor in negotiations resuming due to his managerial decisions”, with Vinicius prepared to wait on an exit door swinging open. He clashed with his former manager after learning that he was to be dropped for a FIFA Club World Cup semi-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2025.
Matters came to a head during a Clasico date with Barca at Santiago Bernabeu in October, with Vinicius protesting loudly in public when being substituted during the second-half of that contest. He later apologised for his actions, but the damage had been done.
While Vinicius and Alonso made a point of hugging on the touchline, ESPN says their "relationship remained strictly professional and cordial”. It is now officially over, with Real in the market for a new permanent head coach.
Whoever takes the reins will want to ensure that Vinicius is part of the long-term project in Madrid. The groundwork will soon be laid there, with optimism building again when it comes to a contract extension.
Bringing an end to any uncertainty off the field could also work in Vinicius’ favour on it, as he has struggled for a spark this season. With plenty of distractions being factored into the equation - including a World Cup in the summer - he has registered just six goals and seven assists through 28 appearances in all competitions.