The future of Vinícius Júnior at Real Madrid is uncertain. The Brazilian forward has demanded a substantial pay raise and a renewal bonus that could disrupt the club's financial balance. His request has sparked debate within the Madrid board, which is now considering a potential departure to avoid a ripple effect among other key players.

Although his contract runs until 2027, Vinícius' firm stance has raised alarms at Valdebebas. Meanwhile, players like Rodrygo Goes, who seemed on his way out, could benefit from this possible reshuffle. One thing is clear: new coach Xabi Alonso is already envisioning a starting XI without the Brazilian winger.

How Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid Would Line Up Without Vinícius Jr.

If Vinícius Jr. eventually leaves the club, Xabi Alonso would likely adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on youth, talent, and fresh faces. In goal, Thibaut Courtois remains the undisputed starter following his return from injury. In defense, newcomer Trent Alexander-Arnold would slot in at right back, with Dean Huijsen and Antonio Rüdiger forming the central pairing, and young Álvaro Carreras on the left.

The midfield duo would be Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham, who is set to return after surgery. Further up the pitch, Arda Güler would take the left attacking role, with Argentine wonderkid Mastantuono on the right, and Gonzalo García in the central playmaker position. The academy product earned his place after a standout Club World Cup performance.

Leading the attack, Kylian Mbappé would be the team’s main threat, likely partnering again with Gonzalo in a dynamic forward duo.

Projected starting XI:
Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Rüdiger, Carreras; Valverde, Bellingham; Güler, Mastantuono, Gonzalo; Mbappé.

Meanwhile, LaLiga president Javier Tebas affirmed that Real Madrid has enough time to recover after their Club World Cup campaign, in which they were knocked out by PSG in the semifinals. The club had requested a delayed league debut, but the league denied it. Their season opener will be on August 19 against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu.

It’s shaping up to be a dramatic summer in Madrid—and Vinícius Jr.’s future could define the direction of a team in full transition.