Alonso defends rotation policy as Vinicius tensions simmer

Vinicius Jr has yet to complete a full 90 minutes for Real Madrid this season under new manager Xabi Alonso, leaving the him visibly frustrated and making headlines in Spanish media despite the team's perfect start to the campaign. The 25-year-old Brazilian, who scored in Champions League finals during Real's triumphs in 2022 and 2024, has been substituted in 10 of the 12 matches since Alonso took charge in June following Carlo Ancelotti's departure. He started on the bench in the other two games, including last week's Champions League opener against Olympique de Marseille. Saturday's match against Espanyol highlighted the puzzling situation. Vinicius was a constant threat down the left flank and assisted Mbappe's goal and hit the post from...