Mbappe or Vinicius? Alonso Faces Madrid Dilemma

Kylian Mbappe’s rivalry with Vinicius Junior has split Real Madrid just as Xabi Alonso prepares a sweeping overhaul in the Spanish capital.

Kylian Mbappe Central to Alonso’s Rebuild

The 3-0 Club World Cup semi-final drubbing by Paris Saint-Germain highlighted more than tactical flaws; it exposed a divided dressing room. Sources close to Valdebebas reveal that Alonso, who is expected to take the Bernabéu hot seat next summer, views Kylian Mbappe as the marquee name around whom a new attacking structure can be built. Club president Florentino Pérez is reportedly in favour, believing the Frenchman’s commercial magnetism will offset a hefty transfer fee and wage bill.

Dressing-Room Tensions Boil Over

Witnesses say Mbappe and Vinicius exchanged icy words after the final whistle, blaming each other for missed pressing triggers. Senior players fear the feud could shatter team harmony if both remain. Captain Nacho has already called a private meeting to “reset egos,” but insiders suggest the rift runs deep.

Financial and Tactical Factors

Keeping both superstars could blow Madrid’s salary cap, especially with Jude Bellingham’s new deal pending. Alonso reportedly prefers Mbappe’s instinctive movement over Vinicius’ touch-line dribbling, believing it aligns better with the high-tempo 4-3-2-1 system he perfected at Bayer Leverkusen. Meanwhile, Premier League clubs are monitoring Vinicius, who could fetch a fee north of €120 million and fund a new right-back plus midfield depth.

What Happens Next?

Contract talks with Mbappe’s entourage resume after the Club World Cup final, while Vinicius’ future may hinge on offers arriving before July. Alonso wants clarity early to shape pre-season plans and avoid last-minute upheaval.

Opinion: Choosing Mbappe over Vinicius feels ruthless, yet Real Madrid have never shied from bold calls. If Alonso’s vision demands a single superstar, backing Mbappe’s proven goal output may be the pragmatic path to renewed European glory.