Vinicius Jr.’s Contract Situation: Implications for Real Madrid and Its Future

Vinicius Junior is justified in feeling undervalued by Real Madrid. According to reports from The Athletic, he declined a contract offer two years ago, believing his worth exceeded the terms presented. His decision was reasonable, especially with Karim Benzema’s departure and Jude Bellingham’s recent arrival, positioning Vinicius as a pivotal figure and a potential Ballon d’Or candidate for the club.

At that time, Madrid proposed a salary of approximately €20 million per season, but Vinicius argued for a figure closer to €30 million. While this represents a substantial sum, his stance reflects standard negotiation practices, advocating for what he perceives to be his market value.

This season, Vinicius and his representatives returned to negotiations, yet they failed to reach an agreement. Financial constraints and a tense relationship with manager Xabi Alonso hindered discussions.

Vinicius is unwilling to remain in a team where he feels he is not the star player. His self-perception may attract criticism, particularly in light of the unwarranted and often racially motivated attacks on his character.

His decision to not sign a new contract is not entirely unexpected; the frayed relationship with Alonso has played a significant role. Initially, introducing Kylian Mbappe seemed unwise given Vinicius’s established place within the Madrid squad. Both players are elite left wingers, each occupying slightly different roles. Vinicius tends to position himself wider and engages more in dribbling, whereas Mbappe operates more centrally yet also excels in one-on-one situations. Throughout Mbappe’s debut season, both players frequently occupied similar spaces on the pitch, leading Ancelotti to ultimately deploy them as a front duo. However, their reluctance to collaborate and insufficient off-ball effort undermined Madrid’s defensive stability. Despite Mbappe breaking the record for the most goals in a debut season (43), his presence arguably detracted from the defending champions’ overall performance.

Currently, Mbappe has adapted well to his central role under Alonso, thriving and on pace for over 50 goals this season. Nonetheless, he continues to be positioned in a role that may not fully leverage his talents. Mbappe’s appeal to national coach Didier Deschamps to play alongside a striker highlights his preference for a system that includes a central figure or a wider role.

Should Vinicius depart, opportunities may arise for Rodrygo, who has seen diminished playing time despite his talent. Increased minutes could allow Rodrygo to play in his favored left-wing position. Additionally, Jude Bellingham could assume a more traditional No. 10 role, while Arda Guler and Nico Paz, who is expected to return to Madrid next summer, would find greater room to contribute.

Alonso’s tactical flexibility is crucial, and shedding a superstar may facilitate his strategic vision. Moreover, a transfer could provide Real Madrid president Florentino Perez with significant funds to invest in the squad. Reports linking Madrid with Erling Haaland had quieted since his long-term contract with Manchester City, but Vinicius’s exit could reignite that interest, potentially leading to one of football’s most significant transfers.

If Madrid pursues Haaland, it would align with Alonso’s strategy of employing a robust forward capable of holding the ball and scoring. While there would be necessary adjustments in defensive responsibilities, Perez has a history of successfully executing major signings, and financial gains from a Vinicius transfer may expedite such plans.

Ultimately, if Vinicius does leave, Alonso stands to benefit significantly. Discussions have surfaced regarding the Galacticos’ faith in his tactical approach, particularly as he navigates challenges despite Madrid’s position at the top of La Liga and a favorable Champions League placement. Allowing a star player to depart due to managerial discord would signal strong confidence in Alonso’s vision for the club’s future, whereas efforts to retain Vinicius might undermine his standing. Alonso remarked, “I know what the dressing rooms are like, what you have to go through and how to manage external pressures. These situations should not distract us from our focus.” As the Vinicius situation continues to unfold, his potential exit may ultimately contribute positively to Real Madrid’s overall trajectory.