Vinicius, Cristiano and Benzema: lessons from Bernabéu boos | OneFootball

Vinicius delivered his best recent outing against Monaco, supplying two assists, scoring one and forcing another in a 6-1 Champions League win. Yet unease from Bernabéu boos lingers and his renewal remains unresolved.

El Periódico Mediterráneo reports that, despite the player-of-the-match award, he described difficult days and a wish to avoid off-pitch focus. He said home jeers hurt, he trusts the president and there is no rush over his future.

His continuity now hinges on a negotiation that Arbeloa and team-mates are trying to manage. His agent Federico Pena watched on as he was shown most affection against Monaco, and his standing has improved under the current coach compared with Xabi Alonso.

History offers perspective. In 1962 Alfredo Di Stéfano was whistled after an advert showing him in a Madrid shirt above female legs. On his return every touch drew jeers until he scored twice against Athletic Club and the noise stopped.

Guti and Martín Vázquez endured similar treatment and coped. Kaká and Anelka never connected with a crowd that punishes apathy and rewards visible graft, including pressing.

Even Cristiano Ronaldo was booed by sections after the 1-3 loss to Barcelona in 2011/2012, a blip that soon vanished as José Mourinho’s side stormed the league. In September 2013 Karim Benzema heard whistles too. Carlo Ancelotti says occasional jeers can motivate, and with Vinicius the bond will be repaired through performances, as Tchouaméni’s resurgence shows.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo