Overview
- After Real Madrid’s 4-0 win at Valencia, Xabi Alonso said he was bothered by Vinicius Júnior’s missed spot-kick and reiterated that Kylian Mbappé is the primary penalty taker.
- Alonso explained that players decided Vinicius would take the second penalty despite the usual order, and he added he would have preferred Mbappé to take it while downplaying any broader fallout.
- Valencia goalkeeper Jule Agirrezabala saved Vinicius’s effort, and Jude Bellingham scored roughly two minutes later to put Madrid 3-0 up, limiting any competitive impact.
- Jorge Valdano urged a clear hierarchy by placing Mbappé first and Vinicius second on penalties, emphasizing the coach’s authority in setting priorities.
- Carlo Ancelotti said he discussed the recent substitution flashpoint with Vinicius, who acknowledged a mistake and apologized, and a separate report from Sport Bild claims—without official confirmation—that Madrid is considering a 2026 sale.