Vinicius on the right, Mbappé on the left: tension grows in Real Madrid

Despite preparing seriously for the new season, the famous Madrid club "Real" is facing internal strategic issues. Specifically, the team’s head coach Xabi Alonso is still struggling to find the right way to position the two attacking stars — Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé.

A recent defeat in the semi-final of the Club World Cup further highlighted the issue. In that match, Madrid lost heavily to PSG with a score of 0:4. Vinicius Junior played in an unusual position — on the right wing. Mbappé was placed on the left, and young striker Gonzalo García played between them.

According to journalist Miguel Ángel Díaz, people close to Vinicius are highly dissatisfied with this decision. The player himself also admitted that he feels uncomfortable playing on the right. His performance was not as effective, and this affected his psychological state as well.

It is emphasized that Vinicius, when playing on the left, can impress with his speed, technique, and improvisation. But that position is now taken by the newly arrived star — Mbappé. His transfer to Real requires a complete revision of the team’s tactical layout.

Meanwhile, rumors are spreading from the Madrid camp about Vinicius possibly leaving the club. The growing doubt about his position has fueled talk of a transfer. He joined the club as a youngster and became a key figure, but now his future appears uncertain.

For coach Xabi Alonso, this is not an easy task. On one hand, Mbappé, a global superstar and major club investment, needs to play in his natural position. On the other, Vinicius, a reliable and efficient player, shouldn’t lose his spot on the team.

Fans are also debating fiercely. Some believe favoring Mbappé is natural, while others think Vinicius’s contributions should be respected.

So far, no official criticism has come from within the team. But to avoid escalation, the club management and coaching staff must quickly decide how to properly position both stars on the pitch and maintain personal harmony.

Otherwise, Real Madrid’s game in the new season could face serious pressure both tactically and psychologically. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!