Only Kane has been better. Vinicius has posted remarkable stats since Alonso's departure

RCD Espanyol de Barcelona v Real Madrid CF - LaLiga EA Sports

Vinicius Junior has been the main beneficiary of Xabi Alonso's dismissal from Real Madrid, as the statistics unequivocally show.

Since Alvaro Arbeloa took charge, the Brazilian has scored more goals in Europe's top leagues than any other player, with only Bayern Munich's Harry Kane ahead of him.

By the numbers: Since Arbeloa took charge, Vinicius has scored 15 goals in 23 games, while Kane has found the net 24 times for the German record champions during the same period. Under Alonso, the forward was far less of a threat in front of goal, converting just seven times in 33 matches.

Reports suggest that Vinicius was particularly critical of Alonso's coaching methods and leadership style at Real Madrid. Repeated clashes came to a head when he was substituted during the Clásico in October, and those tensions are said to have hastened Alonso's exit after the Spanish Super Cup final loss to Barcelona in January. Months later, Vinicius admitted that their relationship had been anything but smooth.

According to Spanish radio station COPE, the rift began as early as last summer's Club World Cup, shortly after Alonso had taken over from Carlo Ancelotti. 

According to the report, Vinicius reacted angrily when he learned he was initially benched in favour of an attacking trio including Kylian Mbappé and Gonzalo García. Alonso subsequently changed his plans and included the Brazilian in the starting line-up.

Liverpool FC v Real Madrid C.F. - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4

Real Madrid: Álvaro Arbeloa sidelined again

Despite Arbeloa's appointment, calm has not returned to Real Madrid. On the contrary, the club has tumbled out of the Champions League quarter-finals against Bayern and surrendered the La Liga title. Barcelona now stand to clinch the crown this Sunday in the return leg of El Clásico. For the second straight season, Vinicius and co. are set to finish trophyless. 

Reports suggest Arbeloa has fallen out with several players, creating an "explosive" dressing-room atmosphere, and the former Madrid defender is again on the brink of the sack. President Florentino Pérez is said to be leading a full-scale search for a replacement, with José Mourinho as his preferred candidate.

Meanwhile, Vinicius is expected to sign an extension to his current contract, which runs until 2027. Over a year ago, the forward announced he would soon put pen to paper on fresh terms with the La Liga giants; the delay has fuelled speculation that the Brazilian could depart. However, reports now indicate that both parties have reached agreement in principle, with only final details to be confirmed.