Breaking point in Real Madrid’s season: Vinícius injured, Alonso era begins

The injuries to Vinícius Júnior and Lucas Vázquez after El Clásico have disrupted Real Madrid’s plans. Carlo Ancelotti’s move to Brazil is confirmed, and the Xabi Alonso era begins. Real Madrid are entering a new phase ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.

13 May 2025 - 12.05

3 minutes

 A clenched ankle on the turf becomes the season’s fault line between dominance and disruption.

This image was generated using AI for editorial illustration purposes only.

Alonso’s Quiet Ascension
Vázquez Folds the Final Thread
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Vinícius injury may end his season

Real Madrid have announced that Vinícius Júnior suffered a sprain in his left ankle during the closing moments of El Clásico. According to Spanish media, the Brazilian player will miss the away match against Mallorca on Wednesday. It also remains uncertain whether he will be fit for the final league game against Real Sociedad.

According to MARCA, since Real Madrid no longer have any domestic cup objectives remaining, Vinícius is not expected to be risked. The club’s priority is to have him fully fit for the FIFA Club World Cup in June.

A bright season could be cut short for Vini

Before his injury, Vinícius was having a remarkably impressive season. In La Liga, he recorded 11 goals and 7 assists in 29 matches. In the Champions League, he added 8 goals and 3 assists in 12 games. Across all competitions, the Brazilian forward played 50 matches, contributing 20 goals and 16 assists, establishing himself as one of Real Madrid’s most effective attacking threats.

Coaching change confirmed: Ancelotti departs, Xabi Alonso era begins

According to Fabrizio Romano, Carlo Ancelotti’s move to take charge of the Brazil national team has been finalized. Contracts have been signed, the coaching staff has been selected, and it has been confirmed that Ancelotti will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season. He is expected to begin his role in Brazil at the end of May.

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Likewise, Romano also reported that Xabi Alonso has signed a contract with Real Madrid running until 2028. The club has assembled the technical team, and preparations are ongoing for Alonso to lead the squad at the FIFA Club World Cup.

More optimistic outlook for Vázquez

Lucas Vázquez was also forced off due to injury during El Clásico. However, AS reports that the injury sustained by the 33-year-old is not serious. A strain has been detected in his left pectineus muscle. While he is expected to miss the Mallorca match, his chances of playing against Sevilla are estimated at 90%.

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Vázquez’s farewell likely, but one more Club World Cup duty remains

According to Fabrizio Romano, Lucas Vázquez will part ways with Real Madrid at the end of the season. The experienced right-back’s contract expires on July 1, which also marks his 34th birthday.

Interestingly, that date falls in the middle of the expanded format of the FIFA Club World Cup. Romano reports that the plan is for Vázquez to represent Real Madrid during the tournament and then move on as a free agent to begin a new chapter in his career.

Real Madrid
Breaking point in Real Madrid’s season: Vinícius injured, Alonso era begins