Former defender warns Real Madrid superstar forward over contract tactics – ‘These fights are poisonous’ | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid defender and current Athletic Club sporting director Rafael Alkorta has spoken out about Vinicius Jr.’s contract situation at the Santiago Bernabeu.

With the Brazilian winger reportedly in a stand-off with the club over his new deal, Alkorta has offered some pointed advice, urging him not to push too hard against club president Florentino Perez.

Vinicius’ contract renewal talks have reportedly hit a wall. The latest updates suggest a disagreement over the net salary the forward is demanding compared to what Real Madrid are currently offering.

This has led to a flurry of opinions in the Spanish football scene, and Alkorta didn’t hold back when addressing the issue.

“Trying to squeeze Florentino Perez can go wrong. Let’s remember what happened with Ramos,” Alkorta said on Cadena SER (h/t SPORT).

What happened with Ramos?

It is to be noted that he was referring to the saga involving Sergio Ramos, who rejected a renewal offer from Florentino, only to try and accept it months later, at which point it had already expired. As a result, Ramos had no choice but to leave the club.

Alkorta believes something similar could happen with Vinicius if he is not careful.

Vinicius Jr. is yet to sign a renewal with Real Madrid. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

He highlighted the club president’s firm stance in such negotiations: “Since they took him off the left wing, I haven’t seen him well.

“Playing with Mbappe has cost him. They are young and ambitious, but the environment must advise them better. Now is not the time to demand as if I had had a great season,” Alkorta explained.

Urging to do better

The former centre-back urged Vinicius to put his energy into improving on the pitch instead of creating off-field distractions. “Last year, modifying the scheme for him and Mbappe to play didn’t work at all.

“If you focus on performing at your best, the rest will come by itself. Madrid always rewards those who prove their worth on the pitch.”

In closing, Alkorta issued one last warning about how Real Madrid operates under Florentino.

“These fights are poisonous. Florentino is affectionate, but he does not hesitate to make tough decisions. It must be cold. If he has a good season, he will have the strength to negotiate,” he said.