Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has voiced his full support for Vinícius Júnior after sections of the Santiago Bernabéu crowd whistled the Brazilian winger during Sunday’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Real Betis, insisting the forward remains a vital part of his plans.

Vinícius, who netted 22 goals last season, has struggled for form in front of goal this campaign, scoring just five times in all competitions and failing to find the net in his last 15 appearances. The 25-year-old was previously jeered during Real’s 2-0 home win over Sevilla on December 20, and he again received a mixed reaction when substituted in the 77th minute alongside Rodrygo — despite the latter registering two assists against Betis.

Alonso, however, was quick to play down the crowd reaction and defend his winger’s contribution.

“Vini has given us a lot,” Alonso told reporters. “He came on very well, he was persistent and disruptive. I liked his performance and everything he brought to the team. He’s going to be crucial in the Super Cup.

“We understand the situation. Vinícius is mature, and so are we. We have to respond together. We’re all here to support one another and give our best.”

The Real boss was adamant that the Brazilian’s importance to the club has not diminished.

“Vini has been fundamental at Madrid and he will continue to be so,” Alonso added. “I’m sure the Bernabéu will applaud him again in the future — I have no doubt about that.”

Alonso heaps praise on García

While defending Vinícius, Alonso also reserved special praise for Gonzalo García, who seized his opportunity with a stunning hat-trick in the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappé.

The 21-year-old forward, who impressed at last year’s FIFA Club World Cup with four goals, was handed a starting role after LaLiga top scorer Mbappé was ruled out with a knee injury. García rose to the occasion, helping Real close the gap on league leaders Barcelona to four points.

Real, who led LaLiga earlier in the season before a downturn in November, now sit second with 45 points from 19 matches, trailing the defending champions.

“Gonzalo had a dream match at the Bernabéu in his first season, scoring a hat-trick,” Alonso said. “He was eager to score, and I’m very happy for him — for the daily work he puts in, whether he plays or not. His attitude is impressive, and he’s a great example of what a Madrid academy player should be.

“He deserved this opportunity, and I congratulate him. I encourage him to keep it up.”

Alonso also highlighted García’s work ethic off the ball as a key asset.

“Modern football demands teamwork, with and without possession,” he explained. “The forwards start the press, and Gonzalo understands that very well. When you combine his defensive work with his goals, that’s a huge positive.”

When asked whether Mbappé, Vinícius, Rodrygo and García could all play together, Alonso was open-minded.

“Why not?” he replied. “That’s my decision. There are many matches, and we’ll see what’s needed. Nothing should be ruled out.”