Real Madrid News
Real Madrid and key forward to press ahead with renewal as conflicts with Xabi Alonso resolved
In a major development, AS reports that Real Madrid and Vinicius Jr. are now confident that his confident renewal will be agreed once talks resume in 2026, with his problems with manager Xabi Alonso now a thing of the past.
Vinicius’ current contract expires in 2027, meaning he will have only one year left on his deal next summer – a situation that Real Madrid are keen to avoid.
Talks, though, have hit a roadblock, one due to the player’s salary demands, and because of the tension between him and manager Alonso, which had led to the Brazilian hesitating to commit to a new deal.
No more problems
But, as per the report, Alonso has managed to close the ‘Vinicius case’, the main issue he encountered in the dressing room upon his arrival at Real Madrid.
The forward has rediscovered his smile over the last three matches, during which the manager has given him a new role. He now plays as a striker alongside Kylian Mbappe, starting from the left as he prefers, but operating higher up the pitch.
It is a position that demands far less defensive work and one that he feels suits the status he has earned as a fearsome attacker. The Brazilian once again feels that his football fits the system perfectly.
New role paying off?
Across these three games in his new role, Vinicius has responded perfectly. Against Olympiacos, Alonso used a powerful midfield trio of Aurelien Tchouameni, Fede Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga, creating ample space for both Vinicius and Mbappe to enjoy.
The Brazilian had a field day as he provided two assists for Mbappe’s four goals.
Then, against Girona, despite the 1-1 draw, the 25-year-old superstar looked like his usual self. He took the most shots in the match (seven), even more than Mbappe (five).
Finally, at San Mames, with the 4-4-2 fitting the team perfectly, Vinicius attempted four shots, the same as Mbappe, and only lacked a goal to complete an excellent night.
This three match sequence has brought his smile back. The tense moments between coach and player now feel distant. Vinicius made that clear at San Mames when he embraced Alonso warmly.
With the problems in the rearview mirror, Vinicius and Real Madrid are convinced about reaching an agreement over a contract renewal, although the salary demands will still need to be addressed.
Real Madrid News
Manchester United could revive interest in Real Madrid youngster in January – report
Endrick’s situation at Real Madrid is becoming increasingly difficult.
The 20-year-old has struggled for regular minutes, despite making his return to the pitch last night, when he was introduced for the closing stages as the team searched for a comeback against Elche.
The Brazilian had not expected to be playing such a limited role after returning to the Spanish capital following his successful loan spell at Olympique Lyon in the last season.
Endrick believed he could become an important option not only as a centre-forward, but also on the right wing, a position where he impressed during his spell in Ligue 1.
While his pre-season injury kept him out for a period, Endrick’s expectations regarding his role have not been met, and the situation could force the striker to reconsider his short-term future.
Manchester United could revisit Endrick interest
Now, according to TeamTalk (h/t Bernabeu Digital), Manchester United could revive their interest in the Real Madrid forward if his lack of playing time continues.
The Red Devils showed interest in Endrick during the summer after contacts were made with his representatives and intermediaries.
However, nothing came of it as Jose Mourinho made it clear that he wanted to keep hold of the 20-year-old Brazilian international.
But, with his role at Madrid yet to develop as expected, Manchester United could return to the possibility of signing him when his situation is reassessed in January.
Another loan move could therefore become an option for Endrick during the winter window.
Repeat of the Lyon formula?
As mentioned previously, the striker already experienced a temporary move last season, joining Olympique Lyon in January.
He made a positive impact in France, scoring eight and assisting eight goals in 21 games, earning him a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
Lyon were keen to keep the 20-year-old for longer, but Real Madrid brought him back to the club with the expectation that he would have a more significant role.
That has yet to happen, though, with his pre-season injury and increased competition for places making things difficult.
Kylian Mbappe, after all, is the undisputed starter in the No. 9 position, while summer signing Carlos Espi continues to make a strong case for himself with displays such as last night’s heroics against Elche.
On the right flank, Endrick has to contend with competition from Arda Guler, Brahim Diaz, and Yan Diomande.
As such, another departure in January has become a possibility for the former Palmeiras prodigy if his situation remains unchanged.
There has been interest from AS Roma already, but Manchester United could also throw their hat in the ring.
