Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of La Liga to five points with a 2-1 win over Barcelona in El Clasico — but the evening wasn’t without drama as tension surrounding Vinicius Junior resurfaced.
It was a statement victory for Xabi Alonso in his first league Clasico as manager, with Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe leading the way. Bellingham marked his return to form with a goal and an assist after a difficult spell recovering from shoulder surgery, while Mbappe continued his ruthless scoring streak.
Yet what should have been a near-perfect night for Real Madrid turned sour in the second half when Vinicius reacted angrily to being substituted in the 72nd minute. The Brazilian stormed past Alonso and down the tunnel before later reappearing on the bench — a public show of discontent that reignited speculation over his future.
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague told BBC Sport that while Alonso’s tactical setup was impressive, the growing rift between Vinicius and the club could become a serious concern.
Alonso’s System Delivers Early Success
Alonso’s Real were disciplined, compact, and relentless in their pressing — a stark contrast to Carlo Ancelotti’s more lenient, player-led approach last season.
“Alonso got it spot on,” said Balague. “Real Madrid were very good, and Barcelona couldn’t play well because of what Real were doing. They pressed high, tracked back as a unit, and defended in two organised lines.”
The structure also allowed Bellingham to shine. Deployed nominally on the right of midfield, the Englishman drifted inside to link with Mbappe and attack the box — precisely where he’s most dangerous.
“Using Eduardo Camavinga centrally gave them more dynamism,” Balague explained. “Bellingham had freedom to support Mbappe, and he found him several times. He was also key in closing the inside channels, making Barcelona’s life very difficult.”
Madrid: Vinicius’ Anger Reflects Deeper Issues
Despite the win, much of the post-match attention centred on Vinicius’ reaction to his substitution. The winger, reportedly frustrated by stalled contract talks and feeling overshadowed by Mbappe’s arrival, showed visible anger after being replaced by Rodrygo.
“Everyone will criticise him, and rightly so,” said Balague. “It showed a lack of respect to Rodrygo. But Vinicius has grown up feeling the world is against him. That mentality is hard to change — especially when he feels the club now revolves around Mbappe.”
Reports suggest Real Madrid might be open to selling the Brazilian for around €250 million next summer if renewal talks fail. For now, his relationship with the club appears strained, and Alonso faces the challenge of keeping his star engaged.
Barcelona’s Identity Unravels
For Barcelona, defeat deepened concerns about their form under Hansi Flick. Last season, they won all four Clasicos, but on Sunday they looked a shadow of that side — disorganised without the ball and blunt in attack.
“It’s like the team is less hungry, less aggressive,” Balague said. “Their defensive line wasn’t perfect, and they don’t press as a unit anymore.”
Lamine Yamal, once a constant threat to Madrid, was quiet throughout, while injuries to Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Dani Olmo have left the Catalans short of energy and cohesion.
Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, was one of the few bright sparks, providing an assist for Barcelona’s only goal. But he often found himself isolated on the left, forced to take on multiple defenders with little support.
“Their style falls apart when they can’t win the ball back quickly,” Balague noted. “Without that intensity, they lose their identity.”
Real Madrid’s win may prove pivotal in the title race — a sign that Alonso’s tactical discipline is taking hold. But as the Vinicius saga unfolds, the club’s biggest challenge could be managing success without internal turmoil.
