Vinicius Júnior could be one of the decisive figures in the Barcelona vs Real Madrid final, according to head coach Xabi Alonso, who voiced full confidence in the Brazilian ahead of the Spanish Super Cup clash.
Real Madrid and Barcelona face off this Sunday (11) in the Spanish Super Cup final, with kickoff scheduled for 7 pm (UK time). Despite Vinicius not having scored since October, Xabi Alonso believes the winger is ready to deliver on the biggest stage.
Xabi Alonso: “I Remember Finals Where He Was Decisive”
Speaking ahead of the Clásico, the Real Madrid coach highlighted Vinicius Júnior’s history in major matches and expressed optimism about his form returning at the right moment.
“It’s a matter of timing, and he’ll get back to playing at a high level, enjoying himself and being decisive. We need him tomorrow, yes or yes. I remember finals where he was decisive, and tomorrow we have a big game, a final against Barcelona,” said Xabi Alonso.
The coach also emphasized the importance of emotional management when dealing with a player like Vinicius.
“Each player is different, and each moment is different. Vinicius is very emotional. You need emotional intelligence to know how to talk to him and be there for him. His teammates and the coaching staff do this very well,” he added.
Vinicius Júnior Expected to Start for Real Madrid
Vinicius Júnior is expected to start and form Real Madrid’s attacking trio alongside Rodrygo and either Gonzalo García or Kylian Mbappé. Mbappé’s availability remains uncertain and will depend on a final medical assessment, as confirmed by Xabi Alonso.
A probable Real Madrid lineup includes:
Courtois; Valverde, Rüdiger, Raúl Asencio (Huijsen), Carreras; Tchouaméni, Bellingham, Camavinga; Rodrygo, Vinicius Júnior, Gonzalo García (Mbappé).
“It’s 90 minutes, anything can happen. We’re preparing to win. We believe in what we’re doing and need energy, confidence, and organization,” said the coach.
Barcelona Also Ready for the Clásico Final
On the other side, Barcelona are expected to welcome back Lamine Yamal, who was used as a substitute in the semi-final against Athletic Bilbao.
A likely Barcelona lineup is:
Joan García; Koundé, Eric García, Cubarsí, Balde; Pedri, De Jong, Fermín López (Dani Olmo); Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Ferran Torres.
“We know Barcelona well, and they know us. There are no secrets. We need to play a complete game, with and without the ball. Barcelona has many important players,” Xabi Alonso concluded.
