HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Real Madrid Weighs Vinícius Júnior Rest Amid Intensifying Workload - ESPN Analysis

ESPN Soccer •
×

Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa revealed that forward Vinícius Júnior may be rested ahead of Saturday's LaLiga clash with Mallorca to manage his workload. The Brazil international played 90 minutes in a World Cup qualifier against France on April 2 and 67 minutes in a midweek Champions League win over Croatia, accumulating 157 minutes of action in 10 days. Arbeloa criticized predecessor Carlo Ancelotti for limiting rest periods, stating, "He's tired because Carlo hasn't given him much rest," though he clarified that current coach Ancelotti is prioritizing caution. **Arbeloa himself played 90 minutes in Madrid's 3-2 derby win over Atlético Madrid last week, highlighting the physical toll on key players.