Vinicius Junior’s Playing Time Under Review Ahead of La Liga Match
Vinicius Junior’s availability for Saturday’s La Liga clash against Mallorca is being assessed. Manager Álvaro Arbeloa expressed concerns regarding the workload placed on the Brazilian forward, noting that former Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti “didn’t give the Brazilian star much rest.”
International Demand Takes a Toll on Vinicius
Vinicius was one of only five players to complete the full 90 minutes in Brazil’s recent 2-1 defeat to France last Thursday. He then played 67 minutes in Wednesday’s match against Croatia, both taking place in the United States. As the team prepares for a Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich on Tuesday, Arbeloa is cautious about utilizing Vinicius, who was in stellar form prior to the international break, scoring twice in consecutive matches against Manchester City and Atletico Madrid.
Arbeloa’s Caution Regarding Workload
“He is tired because his friend Carlo hasn’t given him much rest,” Arbeloa remarked. “The demands from both Real Madrid and Brazil are immense. Vinicius has a heavy workload, and he hasn’t had a single day off. I will assess his condition today before making a decision.”
Bellingham’s Absence from International Matches
While Vinicius grapples with a packed schedule, Jude Bellingham was notably absent from England’s friendlies, despite being called up by manager Thomas Tuchel. Reports from Spanish media outlet Marca indicate that Real Madrid were dissatisfied with the treatment Bellingham received and preferred he remained in Spain to bolster his fitness following a recent hamstring injury.
Arbeloa Addresses Bellingham’s Situation
However, Arbeloa downplayed concerns related to Bellingham’s absence during Friday’s press briefing. “Bellingham’s situation was unique. He played a few minutes against Atlético on March 22, but his national coach opted not to take any risks,” he explained. “Jude is intelligent enough to train effectively. I had no plans for him, nor did the England manager. What matters is that he returns to form, and that will happen through play.”
Eder Militao’s Return to Training
In other team news, Brazilian defender Eder Militao has resumed training during the international break and could make his first appearance since December. Arbeloa praised Militao’s capabilities, stating, “When he’s in top form, he is the best center-back in the world. His presence on the field is like having two players at once. He is intelligent, a leader, and a game-changer. I’m thrilled to welcome him back.”
La Liga Challenge Intensifies for Madrid
With just nine league matches remaining, Real Madrid will head into their game against Mallorca four points behind Barcelona, who will face Atletico Madrid later that evening. Before the international hiatus, Madrid enjoyed a five-match winning streak and hopes to maintain their momentum.
Arbeloa emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, stating, “There are nine finals left in La Liga, and every competition has reached a critical juncture where there is no room for error. Our sole focus is on Mallorca, which poses a significant challenge. The current circumstances have raised many alarms for me. As spring arrives, Real Madrid will rise to the occasion.”
Mallorca, on the other hand, has struggled recently, losing five of their last seven games, including a 2-1 defeat to Elche in their last outing, heightening their risk of falling into the relegation zone.
