Vinicius Jr's Contract Hopes Dashed as Alonso Rift Deepens at Real Madrid

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Real Madrid's plans to build a new era around Vinicius Junior have hit a major roadblock. The Brazilian forward has reportedly told club president Florentino Perez that he doesn't want to renew his contract under the current circumstances, citing his strained relationship with manager Xabi Alonso. According to a report from The Athletic, Vinicius made it clear to Perez in a private meeting last month that a contract extension doesn't make sense as long as Alonso remains in charge. The 24-year-old's current deal runs until 2027 and comes with a €1 billion release clause. The tension between Vinicius and Alonso reportedly began in July during the Club World Cup semi-final, when Alonso initially planned to bench Vinicius before switching him to the right wing. Since then, the Brazilian has started just four of Real Madrid's last 17 matches in all competitions. A heated confrontation between Vinicius and Alonso during the El Clásico victory over Barcelona on October 26 further exacerbated the situation. Vinicius was withdrawn from the game in the 71st minute, sparking a furious reaction from the forward. Off the pitch, Vinicius later apologized on social media, saying "sometimes my passion gets the better of me" and stressing his love for the club. However, the rift with Alonso remains unresolved, with Vinicius's camp pointing to the Club World Cup episode, reduced minutes, and the Clásico flashpoint as evidence that the coach no longer fully trusts him. Real Madrid has reportedly offered Vinicius a renewal worth roughly €20 million net per year, while his camp has asked for a package closer to €30 million, including bonuses and a renewal fee. However, sources on all sides stress that the central obstacle is the Alonso dynamic and what it means for Vinicius's status in the project. For now, the Brazilian has effectively opened the door to an exit without formally requesting one. Unless the relationship with Alonso is repaired or the bench hierarchy shifts decisively in his favour, Real Madrid's plan to build the next era around Vinicius suddenly looks far less secure than it did a few months ago.