Arbeloa builds strong bond with Real Madrid megastar after tough spell under Alonso | OneFootball

For a long time, the relationship between Vinicius Jr. and former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso was surrounded by silence, and that silence spoke volumes. 

Throughout Alonso’s spell in charge, there were never any public signs of trust or harmony between the two. 

On the contrary, multiple decisions on the pitch suggested that the Brazilian was not fully backed by the coach.

Alonso’s lack of conviction in Vinicius became evident over time. The winger was benched in certain matches, substituted in decisive moments, and often appeared to be playing under restrictions rather than freedom. 

Those choices gradually created distance, and the situation finally reached a breaking point during last year’s El Clasico. 

Taken off in a high-pressure match, Vinicius made no effort to hide his frustration, openly directing it towards Alonso on the touchline. From that moment on, the relationship was widely considered beyond repair.

Change in management, change in relationship

With Alonso now gone, the dynamic around Vinicius has shifted dramatically. 

According to a report from AS (h/t Madrid Xtra), the Brazilian now shares a strong and positive relationship with new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa. 

Unlike his predecessor, Arbeloa has shown full trust in Vinicius and views him as a cornerstone of his project.

Vinicius has Arbeloa’s complete support. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

That trust has been reflected immediately in team selections. Since Arbeloa took charge, Vinicius has been a constant presence in the starting XI, including the Copa del Rey clash against Albacete, which ended in a 2-3 defeat. 

While the Brazilian is yet to score under the new coach in the two matches Arbeloa has overseen, his importance within the system has not been questioned for a second.

Arbeloa wants the best

Arbeloa is working actively to help Vinicius rediscover his best form. He has encouraged the team to look for the winger more often during matches, ensuring that Madrid’s attacking play flows through him. 

The idea is to give Vinicius confidence, responsibility, and continuity, something that was missing during the latter stages of Alonso’s tenure.

There is also the added complexity of Vinicius’ relationship with the Santiago Bernabeu crowd, as the Brazilian has frequently been targeted by sections of the stands. 

Aware of this, Arbeloa was directly asked in the recent press conference whether taking Vinicius off the pitch to protect him might be an option.

“Vini, what he wants, and what I hope and wish for, is the support of the Bernabeu for all his players, and above all, for Vinicius. 

“He’s been writing his story for many years. He’s given us two magical Champions League titles,” said Arbeloa.