Sport

Alonso Says He Benched Vinicius to Keep Him Fresh and Ready for the Long Season

Published

5 months ago

September 17, 2025

Photo source: Google

Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has revealed why he decided to keep Vinicius Junior on the bench in their 2-1 Champions League win over Marseille on Tuesday night.

Alonso went with Rodrygo in the starting lineup ahead of his fellow Brazilian, leaving Vinicius to make his impact later in the game when he came on in the second half.

Despite Marseille’s push, two penalties from Kylian Mbappe sealed the victory for Los Blancos at the Bernabeu.

When asked about his decision to bench Vinicius, Alonso explained that it was all about managing the squad during a busy period. He stressed the importance of every player feeling valued, saying the season is long and everyone will have their chance to step up.

Related Topics:Real Madrid vinicius Xabi Alonso

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Diego Simeone Calls Out Ademola Lookman Over Defensive Duties

Published

18 hours ago

February 27, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Head coach of Atletico Madrid, Diego Simeone, speaks on team defense and called out a player who needs to toughen up. He shared that Ademola Lookman needs to work on defense.

“Ademola Lookman arrived with great enthusiasm and desire to keep growing. We need him to add defensive work to what he already gives us offensively, because he has that ability,” he then added.

“He’s shown it with the Nigeria national team, and we need him in that role.”

Sport

Paul Merson Names Mohamed Salah the Greatest Winger of All Time

Published

18 hours ago

February 27, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Former football legend Paul Merson states that Mohammad Salah is the greatest winger of all time.

While also praising Bukayo Saka for being the winger in form right now.

When asked in a recent interview, he stated “For the best right now, it’s probably [Bukayo] Saka for his all-around game. I will go Salah, because the numbers he’s put up are ridiculous.”