Vinicius resurgence could boost Arbeloas Real Madrid launch

Real Madrid sprang back into action this week, spearheaded by an outstanding Vinicius Junior, who aims to solidify both his comeback and his teams revival when they face Villarreal on Saturday in La Liga.

Madrid, sitting in second place, have the chance to claim the top spot with a win before Barcelona entertain Real Oviedo on Sunday, while also diminishing another rivals hopes as they travel to the east coast of Spain.

Villarreal, under Marcelino Garcia Toral, hold third position, trailing Madrid by seven points and Barcelona by eight, so a loss would all but eliminate their prospects of securing a maiden league title.

A convincing 6-1 triumph against Monaco on Tuesday in the Champions League lifted spirits in the Spanish capital and gave new manager Alvaro Arbeloa some early approval.

This offered the initial insight into his squads potential, following the Copa del Rey last 16 loss to Albacete in his debut game, which reflected a side mired in difficulties just two days after Xabi Alonso left.

Arbeloas next outing, a La Liga success over Levante last weekend, was overshadowed by significant fan protests at home, from which the players found it hard to recover.

Yet with supporter backing restored for the Monaco clash, Madrid delivered their strongest showing of the campaign, especially from Brazilian forward Vinicius, who shone brilliantly.

Having failed to score in 16 consecutive outings, Vinicius has now netted twice in his most recent four games.

Apart from a brilliant individual strike versus Monaco, he remained a constant danger and contributed crucially to three additional team goals.

"I believe he performs best when surrounded by affection," commented teammate Jude Bellingham. "His level soars, and he turns into a joy to observe and share the pitch with.

"That sort of fan backlash weighs heavily on someone. But now it feels like those constraints are lifting somewhat, and I hope he keeps it up."

Vinicius acknowledged needing the Bernabeu crowds support on his side, not against him.

"We must push forward with our fans encouragement to restore everything to how it should be," the forward stated.

"Were eager to succeed, just like the supporters, and united, well accomplish remarkable feats this term." 

Following his goal, the forward embraced his manager Arbeloa, after the Spaniard had voiced public support for him in the preceding week.

"I noticed the crowd fully behind Vinicius, calling his name... As I mentioned recently, he requires that sense of belonging from his supporters, hes deeply sensitive and thrives on such warmth," the boss explained.

Vinicius, who placed second in the 2024 Ballon dOr voting, has faced challenges in maintaining form since then.

The 25 year olds deal with Madrid expires in summer 2027, and for several months, he has appeared locked in negotiations over an extension.

In the wake of his impressive Monaco display, signs suggest this impasse is gradually resolving.

"Discussions for a new contract are advancing. Even after a tough period, the Brazilian recognises the clubs solid institutional support," reported Spanish outlet AS.

"Vinicius required his peers endorsement to rebound, and the solidarity, starting with colleagues and extending to Alvaro Arbeloa, underscored that."

From the outset of his tenure, Arbeloa has emphasised that a contented Vinicius equates to a contented Madrid.

Everyone involved wants to sustain this positive momentum during Sundays visit to Villarreal Estadio de la Ceramica.

Player to watch: Frenkie de Jong

Barcelonas Dutch playmaker De Jong must elevate his role and dominate the centre of the park without his regular partner Pedri, sidelined for the coming month. Real Oviedo, with only two wins from their opening 20 fixtures, are unlikely to trouble the hosts much.

Key stats

23 - combined goals and assists from Real Madrids scorching striker Kylian Mbappe

25 - years since Real Oviedo last met Barca at Camp Nou

64 - fouls won by Elche playmaker Aleix Febas, topping all La Liga talents

Fixtures

Friday (all times GMT)

Levante v Elche (2000)

Saturday

Rayo Vallecano v Osasuna (1300), Valencia v Espanyol (1415), Sevilla v Athletic Bilbao (1730), Villarreal v Real Madrid (2000)

Sunday

Atletico Madrid v Mallorca (1300), Barcelona v Real Oviedo (1515), Real Sociedad v Celta Vigo (1730), Alaves v Real Betis (2000)

Monday

Girona v Getafe (2000)