Real Madrid should have been celebrating. A 3–0 win away at Real Oviedo, led by Kylian Mbappé’s dazzling double, seemed the perfect way to close out the weekend. The French superstar delivered exactly what the fans had been waiting for, combining ruthlessness in front of goal with his trademark elegance. On the surface, everything appeared calm at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Yet, beneath the celebrations, a storm was already brewing. What should have been a moment of unity and optimism quickly turned into a complicated scenario for head coach Xabi Alonso, whose decisions have sparked both admiration and controversy in equal measure. The match may have ended in victory, but the dressing room atmosphere told a different story.
Mbappé’s brilliance was undeniable, but another name stole the headlines—Vinícius Júnior. After weeks of speculation about his fitness and tactical role under Alonso, the Brazilian forward entered as a second-half substitute and transformed the game. With one assist and one goal, Vinícius reminded everyone why he remains one of the most feared attackers in world football.
His performance was so convincing that Alonso wasted no time making a bold call: Vinícius would be reinstated into the starting XI for the upcoming fixtures. The decision sent a clear message to the squad—talent combined with discipline and determination would always be rewarded. For Vinícius, this was more than a return; it was a statement.
But while Vinícius celebrated his redemption, another star found himself at the center of a storm. Rodrygo Goes, who has long been seen as a key part of Madrid’s future, reacted angrily to being substituted during the match. His visible frustration on the touchline did not go unnoticed by Alonso or his coaching staff. Instead of brushing the incident aside, Alonso chose to confront it head-on.
In a move that shocked many inside the club, Alonso decided to temporarily drop Rodrygo from the starting lineup. According to reports, the decision was not about form but discipline. The young Brazilian, known for his skill and versatility, will now have to prove his commitment in training before regaining his place in the squad. For a team already filled with attacking competition, this represents a significant setback.
The timing of the drama is particularly delicate. Real Madrid’s perfect start to the La Liga season has placed them level on points with Barcelona at the top of the table. Every detail, every tactical adjustment, could make the difference in a title race that is expected to go down to the wire. The last thing Alonso wanted was a distraction from within his own ranks.
Still, some within the club believe Alonso’s stance could strengthen the team in the long run. By setting clear boundaries and enforcing discipline, he is sending a message that no player—no matter how talented—is bigger than the collective. It is a philosophy that echoes Madrid’s proud tradition, where unity and professionalism have often paved the way for success.
For Rodrygo, however, the decision is a wake-up call. Having already been linked with potential moves to Manchester City and Liverpool earlier in the summer, this episode only adds more fuel to the speculation surrounding his future. Could this disciplinary issue open the door to a transfer exit, or will the young forward use it as motivation to fight his way back?
The uncertainty adds yet another layer of intrigue to Madrid’s season. Alonso, still at the beginning of his reign, is shaping the squad with a mix of tactical innovation and strict leadership. His choices may upset some players, but they underline his determination to build a team not only talented enough to win trophies but also disciplined enough to endure the challenges ahead.
As Madrid prepare for their next fixture, all eyes will be on Alonso’s team sheet. Will Vinícius continue his resurgence in the starting XI? Will Rodrygo respond positively to being sidelined? And most importantly, will Alonso’s fiery decisions stabilize the squad or ignite further unrest inside the Bernabéu?
One thing is certain: what should have been a routine victory against Oviedo has instead turned into the latest chapter in Madrid’s ongoing drama. With the season only just beginning, the balance between brilliance and chaos could define not just the weeks ahead, but the entire campaign for Los Blancos.
