Real Madrid News
Former Real Madrid defender cautions club about superstar’s on-field attitude – ‘Need to take action’
Rafael Alkorta, the former Real Madrid defender and current sporting director of Athletic Club, recently discussed Vinicius Junior’s behavior on the pitch.
Alkorta commented on the Brazilian winger’s tendency to lose control of his emotions during matches, often leading to conflicts with opponents, referees, and even fans.
He believes that while Vinicius’ talent is undeniable, his conduct needs to be addressed, especially given his status as a role model for many young players.
Further analysis from Alkorta
Alkorta pointed out that the situation could require intervention from Real Madrid over Vinicius’ attitude despite the fact that he won The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award for 2024.
“On the subject of Vinicius, I think the club will have to take action at some point,” he began saying as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
Although the club, including manager Carlo Ancelotti, has likely tried various methods to help Vinicius manage his emotions, Alkorta feels it is crucial for the player to understand the responsibility he holds as a public figure.
With his exceptional skills, Vinicius is admired by many young athletes, making it even more important for him to maintain composure both on and off the field.
“I’m sure everyone has tried in every way, especially Ancelotti, but I think we have to try to make the boy understand that, as good as he is, he is a role model for many kids, and that his behaviour is not correct,” he added.
The former defender also highlighted a wider issue in football, especially at the grassroots level. He noted that bad behavior is often seen as acceptable when children witness parents insulting referees or players.
For Vinicius, as one of the top players in the world and a recent winner of FIFA’s The Best award, the pressure to set a positive example is immense.
Alkorta’s comments serve as a reminder that even the most talented athletes must learn to control their emotions and conduct themselves in a way that inspires the next generation.
With the international break done and dusted, Real Madrid will be back in action this weekend in La Liga, where they will be looking to catch up to league leaders FC Barcelona.
Coming up for Jose Mourinho & co., who lost their last game before the international break, will be a home game against Villarreal on Saturday.
And, leading up to the game, the Spanish capital club have received welcome news on the injury front.
Mbappe back in group training
Indeed, as per MARCA, Kylian Mbappe will be available for Real Madrid’s match against Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.
Having been training individually so far this week, the France captain rejoined group training under Mourinho today, taking a concrete step forward towards making himself available for the game.
The forward looked relaxed and ready to work, putting his boots back on and joining the group as Real Madrid prepare for a demanding run of fixtures throughout October.
And, unless there is any unforeseen setback, everything suggests that Mbappe will be ready to start against the Yellow Submarine come Saturday.
Under scrutiny
The past few weeks have been nothing short of eventful for Mbappe, with his every action and movement under heavy scrutiny.
Playing for France, in Zinedine Zidane’s managerial debut, the 27-year-old superstar scored a goal before asking for a substitution due to a knee injury.
Having flown back to Madrid, he underwent tests, which confirmed the injury, although it was not as serious as was initially feared.
The forward then took week-long holiday with his partner that sparked some debate among supporters and attracted criticism from multiple quarters.
Mbappe returned to Madrid on Monday and participated in individual sessions at Valdebebas over the past couple of days. Now he has resumed normal training with his teammates.
There had been doubts over whether Mbappe would be able to face Villarreal after he picked up the injury on 25 September.
However, the recovery plan followed by the forward appears to have worked, and he is now expected to be in a fully fit condition for Saturday’s match.
