The Brazilian also took the opportunity to distance himself from the off-field drama enveloping the club, specifically the recent change in the dugout. Vinicius denied having any influence on the departure of Xabi Alonso amid reports of a tense relationship between the two. The 25-year-old, who hugged new coach Alvaro Arbeloa on the touchline on Tuesday evening, expressed frustration at being a lightning rod for controversy.
"I am always in the centre of everything and I don't want to be there for things off the pitch. I want to be there for what I have done for this club," he stated firmly. Calling for unity to salvage the season following the Copa del Rey elimination and a lost Spanish Super Cup final, he added: "In house, we need the support of our fans so that everything returns to normal. If we are together, this season will go better."
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