Real Madrid’s Golden Child vs. Forgotten Hero? A Brewing Storm in the Bernabéu
The perception that Real Madrid is showering Kylian Mbappé with privileges while neglecting Vinícius Júnior is more than just a talking point — it’s becoming an emotional fault line among fans and possibly within the dressing room itself.
Loyalty, Overlooked
Vinícius Júnior, who arrived at Madrid as a teenager and rose to global stardom through grit, patience, and incredible performances, has given everything for the badge.
He was the heartbeat of Madrid’s attack in multiple seasons. His iconic goal against Liverpool in the 2022 Champions League final cemented his legacy early on. He stood tall during difficult times, especially when Karim Benzema left and expectations fell on his shoulders.
Despite his consistency, flair, and dedication, Vini is now being made to feel replaceable.
No.10 shirt? Given to Mbappé.
Highest salary? Mbappé again.
Left-wing role, which Vinícius turned into a personal kingdom? Also now Mbappé’s.
Penalties and free kicks? Taken away.
A new contract or pay raise? Denied or delayed.
Rumors even suggest that Real Madrid is open to offers from Saudi Arabia for the Brazilian winger — a shock to fans who view him as a symbol of the club’s future.
Mbappé’s Arrival: A Blessing or a Burden?
There’s no doubt Mbappé is a generational talent. His arrival at Madrid has been long-anticipated and heavily hyped. But it now appears that in rolling out the red carpet, the club may have gone too far.
- He’s been given a king’s welcome — not just on the pitch, but in terms of influence and symbolic status.
- Mbappé is now Madrid’s poster boy, brand ambassador, and tactical centerpiece — and he hasn’t even played two full seasons yet.
- Internally, this sudden centralization of power and privilege around one player could fracture team unity, especially when it comes at the expense of others’ pride and roles.
Two Weights, Two Measures
This growing imbalance reflects an age-old tension in football: Star power vs. squad harmony. For all his success, Florentino Pérez has been accused in the past of prioritizing the club’s image and global appeal over internal morale — we saw glimpses of this in the first Galáctico era.
Now, under Xabi Alonso, fans expected a more balanced, principle-driven environment. But with Vini being reportedly marginalized and Mbappé being empowered to this extent, questions are being raised about whether Alonso is really in control of the locker room politics — or whether executives are pulling strings from above.
Emotional Toll on Vinícius
For Vini, this isn’t just about money or shirt numbers.
This is about respect. Recognition. Validation.
To be told, silently but clearly, that you’re no longer the cornerstone of the project — despite everything you’ve sacrificed — hurts more than any financial snub. It’s a message that you’re replaceable, despite years of service, development, and success.
And for a young player who has faced racism in La Liga, who has battled through criticism, who has always worn his heart on his sleeve, this treatment cuts deeper than most realize.
What Happens Next?
If Madrid doesn’t handle this with care, the fallout could be significant:
- Vinícius may push for an exit, and Europe’s elite — including PSG and Manchester City — would pounce.
- The squad may experience divisions, especially if other players begin to sense unfair treatment.
- Mbappé could find himself isolated, if the perception of favoritism breeds resentment around him.
It’s a pivotal moment for Real Madrid — the most successful club in history now stands at a crossroads. Will they honor loyalty and balance, or will they gamble it all on the superstar aura of one man?
