Former Real Madrid defender Rafa Alkorta has spoken about the equation between Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, saying that “egos” have stopped the two from truly clicking on the pitch. Alkorta also said he hopes new manager Jose Mourinho can finally make the attacking pair work together.
Alkorta raises doubts over star partnership
Alkorta gave his assessment of the relationship between Vinicius and Mbappe following the French forward’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu in 2024. Speaking on Cadena SER’s El Larguero, Alkorta indicated that the pair have found it difficult to build a strong understanding, while also expressing hope that new boss Jose Mourinho can succeed in bringing the two attackers onto the same wavelength.
Egos held responsible for difficulties
Alkorta feels the main problem has been the personalities involved rather than any lack of footballing quality. He said: “Since Mbappe arrived, the issue has been one of egos. I’ve never understood the whole ego thing, nor did I experience it in a dressing room, but the reality is that the connection hasn't quite clicked.
“Mbappe scores 50 goals a season, and hopefully, Mourinho can get the two of them performing well together. If Vinicius stays, Mourinho will demand things from him that previous coaches couldn't get. He’s surely already made his expectations clear.”
Contract talks provide encouragement
Alkorta’s remarks come after Vinicius’s representatives met Real Madrid to discuss extending the 26-year-old’s deal beyond its present expiry in 2027. Both sides are said to be moderately optimistic after making progress and moving closer during negotiations.
The former defender also welcomed that development, saying: “Fans will be happy that he’s close to renewing. Mourinho is trying to do what neither Xabi Alonso nor [Alvaro] Arbeloa could manage with the Mbappe-Vinicius duo. They’ve had very little chemistry with the ball and none at all off the ball. I think Vinicius's last two years haven't been good.”
Focus shifts to the new season
Real Madrid will now carry on their build-up for the new campaign with a friendly against Ferencvaros on Saturday. Los Blancos will then take on Deportivo La Coruna four days later before beginning their 2026/27 Liga campaign away to Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium on August 22. Mourinho will hope those matches offer the ideal chance to improve the understanding between Vinicius and Mbappe.
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