Alonso is a challenge for Vinicius.

The Brazilian forward needs to change if he doesn't want to lose his starting place at Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso.

Even in Real Madrid's 3-4 defeat to Barcelona in La Liga's 35th round on May 11th, Vinicius clearly revealed problems in his playing style.

During a Barcelona attack, the Brazilian forward walked slowly. When Pedri, who was standing near Vinicius, prepared to enter the penalty area, the forward only challenged half-heartedly and was easily beaten.

Vinicius walked around while the whole team defended.

This isn't the first time Vinicius has shown a lack of pressing. In the 0-1 defeat against Lille in the Champions League qualifying round late last year, Jude Bellingham was angry with Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe for not contributing to the defense.

Even after the victory against Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final, coach Carlo Ancelotti showed his anger and gestured for Vinicius to move to support his teammates. The Italian coach was unhappy with Vinicius's laxness in defense.

Vinicius didn't put enough pressure on Pedri.

Commenting after the match, former football legend Alvaro Benito expressed his frustration with Vinicius's performance: "The new coach will have to do a lot to change the mindset of some players. You can't play like Vinicius, just standing there watching your teammates defend without any intention of supporting them, nor participating in man-marking or putting pressure on the opponent."

Vinicius in a challenge with Yamal. Photo: Reuters .

In a recent interview, Alonso spoke about his preferred style: "I'm inclined towards positional control, I like high pressing and winning the ball back immediately. But most importantly for me, it's control. The more my team controls the game, the more confident I feel."

High-pressure pressing has become a problem for Real Madrid's attack. Not only Vinicius, but also the duo of Mbappe and Rodrygo have been criticized for their lack of defensive support and pressure on opponents.

It's not easy for Alonso to completely change the playing style upon arriving at Real Madrid. The Spanish strategist has the support of the management and is given the opportunity to build the team. Players who don't fit in are easily removed. Vinicius may not be an exception.

Vinicius's redeeming goal couldn't save Real Madrid. In the early hours of April 6th, Real Madrid lost 1-2 to Valencia at home in the 30th round of La Liga.

Source: https://znews.vn/alonso-la-thach-thuc-cua-vinicius-post1552824.html