Overview

• Vinícius was left out of the starting XI against Marseille for the second time in five matches, his first Champions League non-start at the Bernabéu since 2019 and first CL benching since 2022.
• Xabi Alonso said no player should feel offended by being benched and emphasized a rotation policy designed to keep the squad engaged.
• Álvaro Benito said the decision was more than a routine rest, reading it as a clear message on hierarchy and competition under the new coach.
• Reporting from ESPN cites frustration in Vinícius’ camp and surprise inside the club at the Marseille omission, with the player-coach relationship described as not ideal.
• Talks on a new deal have stalled, with earlier figures reported at €20m per year plus €10m in bonuses later trimmed, as Kylian Mbappé’s growing prominence and starts for Rodrygo and Mastantuono intensify pressure on places.