- Alonso confirmed Vinicius was benched for tactical reasons
- Brazilian came off the bench to score in Madrid's 3-0 win
- Decision was part of Alonso's rotation policy
Getty Images Sport'You have to demand respect' - Xabi Alonso explains why Vinicius Jr was benched for La Liga clash with Real Oviedo amid contract stand off with Real Madrid
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Getty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The victory maintains Real Madrid's perfect start to the La Liga campaign, with two wins from their opening two matches, placing them third in the table behind Villarreal and Barcelona on goal difference. The 3-0 victory marks Real Madrid's second consecutive clean sheet in La Liga this season. Despite the perfect start, the decision to drop Vinicius for Sunday's game raised a few eyebrows amid fears over the attacker's future, given he reportedly rejected a new contract offer from the club.
AFPWHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?
With a busy schedule of domestic and Champions League fixtures on the horizon, squad rotation is set to continue under Alonso. All eyes will be on the teamsheet for their next La Liga match against Mallorca to see if Vinicius Jr is restored to the starting lineup. Meanwhile, players like Rodrygo and Franco Mastantuono will be hoping their performances have earned them further opportunities.
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