Vinícius Júnior is going through one of the most difficult spells of his Real Madrid career. The Brazilian forward has now gone 15 consecutive matches without scoring, extending a goal drought that has lasted more than three months and intensifying scrutiny around his form and future at the club.
Goal Drought Reaches 15 Matches
Real Madrid’s struggles under Xabi Alonso appear to be affecting key players, and Vinícius is no exception. Despite Madrid’s emphatic 5–1 victory over Real Betis on Sunday (4), the Brazilian once again failed to find the net, marking his 15th straight appearance without a goal.
Spanish outlet AS had already highlighted the issue weeks earlier, when Vinícius reached 12 matches without scoring. His last goal for Real Madrid came on October 4 against Villarreal, underlining the length of the drought.
Fans’ Reaction and Internal Friction
The situation has not gone unnoticed at the Santiago Bernabéu. Sections of the Real Madrid fanbase have begun booing Vinícius, reflecting growing frustration. The forward, in turn, has appeared increasingly disconnected from the stands, fueling speculation about internal tension.
Despite the lack of goals, AS defended the player’s attitude, pointing out that his effort remains high. Against Manchester City, for example, Vinícius recorded four shots, more than any other Madrid player. The outlet described the issue as one of finishing rather than commitment.
A Rare Slump in His Career
According to AS, Vinícius had only experienced a similar scoring drought once before, during the 2020/21 season. Since then, he has been a decisive figure for Madrid, making the current run particularly striking.
Transfer Rumors Begin to Resurface
As performances dip, speculation around Vinícius Júnior’s future has resurfaced. In November, The Athletic reported that the Brazilian had informed Real Madrid he was not willing to renew his contract at that stage.
According to the sports section of The New York Times, that message was delivered directly to Florentino Pérez during a meeting in late October, shortly after El Clásico. Reports suggest Vinícius was unhappy after being substituted in the second half of the match.
Relationship With Xabi Alonso Under Scrutiny
Tensions between Vinícius and head coach Xabi Alonso reportedly escalated in July 2025, during Real Madrid’s 4–0 defeat to PSG in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final.
Sources claim Alonso initially did not plan to start Vinícius in that match. The winger only made the starting XI following an injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold, a situation that allegedly deepened the rift between player and coach.
Contract Talks Stall Over Salary Demands
Real Madrid have since attempted to stabilize the situation with a renewal offer. The club proposed a new deal worth €20 million net per season (around R$124 million annually). However, Vinícius’ representatives reportedly demanded a package exceeding R$185 million per year, bringing negotiations to a standstill.
Uncertain Future Amid Mounting Pressure
With goals not coming, fan patience wearing thin, and contract talks frozen, Vinícius Júnior finds himself at a crossroads. Whether he can rediscover his scoring touch or whether the tension will push both sides toward a separation remains one of the most closely watched storylines at Real Madrid.
