In a season already characterized by dominance, Vinicius Jr. delivered a resounding response to recent squad rotations, reminding everyone of his indispensable magic as Real Madrid continues its formidable, yet curiously effortless, ascent.
The murmurs had begun. Twice benched in six matches, a goal drought extending over three fixtures—was Vinicius Junior`s incandescent spark dimming? Doubts, however, proved to be fleeting. Against newly promoted Levante, in a match Real Madrid was expected to win comfortably, the Brazilian forward ensured there was no question of his immediate value. His outrageous trivela finish for the opening goal, dissecting defenders and freezing the goalkeeper, was a vivid demonstration that Vini Jr.`s play does indeed do the talking. An assist later in the first half for Franco Mastantuono, who became the third-youngest scorer in club history, only solidified his statement.
The “Problem” of Riches: A Manager`s Envy, A Journalist`s Delight
While Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé (who added a brace) stole the headlines, the narrative of Real Madrid`s season under Xabi Alonso is becoming increasingly fascinating. They have secured seven wins from their opening seven matches, a perfect start that would normally scream `peak form.` Yet, the consensus among observers is that Los Blancos haven`t even hit top gear. This isn`t a critique; it`s a testament to the sheer depth and quality at Alonso`s disposal, a “problem” any other manager in world football would trade their entire starting XI for. Jude Bellingham, for instance, a pivotal figure, is gently being reintegrated after shoulder surgery, making a 20-minute cameo against Levante. His absence from the starting lineup has not hindered the team`s relentless march.
This enviable situation is further complicated—or perhaps simplified, depending on your perspective—by the emergence of young talents like Arda Güler and the aforementioned Franco Mastantuono. Both are staking their claim for regular minutes, creating a genuinely competitive environment. Imagine the luxury: benching a player of Vini Jr.`s caliber, only for him to respond with a match-winning performance, all while world-class talents like Bellingham are slowly nursed back, and prodigious youngsters are chomping at the bit. It`s a testament to Alonso`s man-management and the inherent quality baked into this Real Madrid squad.
Alonso`s Masterclass: Precision, Patience, and Pushing the Right Buttons
Navigating a congested fixture list, particularly with Champions League commitments and demanding domestic clashes, requires a maestro`s touch. Alonso`s approach has been one of calculated rotation and strategic player management. With key players like Dani Carvajal facing suspension and Trent Alexander-Arnold (though from Liverpool, highlighting the broader context of top-tier club football`s challenges) sidelined by injury, the ability to rotate without a discernible drop in quality is paramount. It allows stars like Vinicius Jr. and Mbappé to remain fresh, ready to unleash their brilliance when it matters most.
The manager`s job, to some, might appear straightforward with such a constellation of stars. However, keeping every ego aligned, every talent motivated, and every player conditioned for peak performance is a delicate art. Alonso seems to be painting a masterpiece, ensuring that even players who start on the bench are primed to make an immediate, impactful contribution. This strategic depth is Real Madrid`s secret weapon, allowing them to absorb the inevitable shocks of a long season without faltering.
Looking Ahead: The Unsettling Prospect of Perfection
With upcoming fixtures against formidable opponents like Atlético Madrid and Villarreal, the squad`s depth will be tested, but not necessarily strained. The prospect of Real Madrid reaching 10 wins from 10 matches is not merely possible; it`s anticipated. Should they achieve this, the declaration that Real Madrid is “well and truly back” will be an understatement. They will be undeniable contenders for every piece of silverware available, and Vinicius Jr.`s rediscovered, or rather re-asserted, pivotal role will be a significant factor in that pursuit.
The unsettling truth for their rivals is that this dominant Real Madrid, a team that has started perfectly, still possesses an untapped reservoir of potential. When Bellingham is fully integrated and firing on all cylinders, when the young talents have further ripened, and when the entire squad truly hits its collective “top gear,” the footballing world might witness something truly special. For now, Vinicius Jr. has delivered his emphatic reminder: the magic remains, and Real Madrid`s march is only just beginning.
Benedict Kingsley 
Adrian Whitmore