JAKARTA - Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has backed Vinicius Junior after the star striker was booed by fans during a 2-1 win over Alaves on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
Arbeloa said that Vinicius had turned whistles into applause with his second-half goal.
Kylian Mbappe gave Real Madrid the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu with a deflected shot after hitting an opponent, before Vinicius made it 2-0 with a superb long-range strike. Then, Toni Martinez scored an entertaining goal for the visitors in injury time.
The spectators at the Bernabeu voiced their disappointment at Real Madrid's elimination from the Champions League against Bayern Munich by booing Mbappe and Vinicius. Supporters also criticized substitute Eduardo Camavinga, who was sent off at Bayern Munich's home.
"Vinicius always tries hard in difficult situations. He carries the burden of the team on his shoulders. We can't doubt his attitude."
"He's not hiding, he's brave. He's a Real Madrid fan, he feels the spirit and the emblem of the club. The spectators demand, they want the best from their players."
"Vini turned a whistle into applause, he's done it before, and that's what's important," Arbeloa said in a post-match press conference.
Arbeloa also expressed his support for Camavinga, whose latest performance drew criticism from Real Madrid fans and media.
"He has a lot of personality and a lot of experience even though he is young. He is like Vini, they came to Real Madrid at a very young age.
"They have done a lot and won important trophies. He has the trust of the coach and the club, and I am sure also from the fans," said Arbeloa.
Real Madrid's victory over Alaves keeps them nine points behind leaders Barcelona, who won 1-0 at Celta Vigo on Thursday, April 23, 2026, early in the morning WIB, with the two giants meeting in El Clasico on May 10, 2026.
Meanwhile, another star, midfielder Jude Bellingham, looked unhappy to be replaced after just 58 minutes against Alaves, sparking a brief discussion with Arbeloa on the sidelines.
"Jude comes from his home. In Munich, he played his first 90 minutes after a long time. At the weekend, we will play another game."
"He has that mentality, that ambition, and even in a game like this, he wants to continue to help and stay on the field," Arbeloa said.
Center Eder Militao was replaced just before the first-half break against Alaves due to injury. He reportedly suffered a hamstring problem although it was not considered serious.
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