Overview
- Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in Xabi Alonso's first Clásico, opening a five-point lead at the top of LaLiga.
- Vinícius Júnior apologized publicly to fans, teammates, the club and the president after protesting his substitution, without naming Alonso.
- Alonso said a team meeting settled the matter and confirmed there will be no disciplinary action as Valencia visit the Bernabéu.
- Usage data show Vinícius is averaging about 68 minutes per appearance under Alonso, a clear drop from recent seasons under Carlo Ancelotti.
- Madrid face Valencia before a trip to Liverpool, with Dani Carvajal out for several weeks, while an injury-hit Barcelona prepare to host Elche.