Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has lifted the lid on why he benched Vinícius Júnior in Los Blancos’ UEFA Champions League opener against Olympique Marseille.

The Brazilian international came off the bench in the second half as Real Madrid defeated the Ligue 1 side 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Alonso opted to start Rodrygo Goes ahead of his fellow Brazilian teammate.

It wasn’t the first time Alonso had benched Vinícius Júnior this season.

Speaking on his decision to start Vinícius from the bench, the Spanish manager stated that he needs to give chances to every player in the team.

“We’re at a demanding point in the calendar and we need everyone.

Everyone will get their moment, and the important thing is that everyone feels prepared and important — because they are, and they will be throughout the season.”

Two spot-kick goals from Kylian Mbappé ensured that the 15-time winners came from a goal down to turn the game on its head.

WDN