Alonso’s Explosive Send-Off: Press, Pressure, and a Shout That Shook Real Madrid
5 January 2026
Alonso’s fiery on-field message to Vinícius Jr.
Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid's coach, exploded with anger at his Brazilian winger Vinícius Júnior during the match against Real Betis.
Madrid won 5-1 on Sunday in La Liga.
According to AS, cameras captured Alonso shouting at Vinícius, urging him to pressure the opponents and not to ease off.
AS added that Betis started the second half with sustained pressure, prompting Alonso to tell his players to press the foe and leave no gaps.
It was noted that Vinícius Jr., one of the players who has received repeated warnings from Alonso, was told not to slacken the press or lower his intensity.
Punchline: Alonso's pep talk apparently comes with a built-in siren—press, press, press, press—it's the only alarm that works in football.
Punchline: Vinícius must have mistaken this for a cardio class—Alonso’s whistle doubles as a gym coach whistle, apparently.
