Vinicius Junior told to wait as former Real Madrid player backs El Clasico XI

Former Real Madrid player Rafa Alcorta has urged Jose Mourinho to keep faith with the starting line-up that defeated Barcelona, even after Vinicius Junior returns to the squad.

Real Madrid won the Clasico 2-1, and Alcorta said the performance showed that the team’s best XI for major matches had already been established. His comments were reported by Defensa Central after he appeared on Carrusel Deportivo on Cadena SER.

“The starting XI that played against Barcelona is the team for the big games. There is no doubt about that. Vinicius should be on the bench,” Alcorta said.

His view has reopened the debate over Vinicius Junior’s role, with Alcorta placing greater emphasis on the collective performance Real Madrid produced against their rivals than on the Brazilian’s return to availability.

“Real Madrid did things well,” Alcorta said. He also highlighted the team’s opening 45 minutes, describing it as “the best first half they have played this season”.

Barcelona had more control after the interval, however, with Alcorta acknowledging that “Barcelona had more possession in the second half”.

The former Real Madrid player also praised Jude Bellingham’s leadership qualities.

“When we talk about leadership, Jude Bellingham has the personality to be a captain,” he said.

Alcorta then compared Bernardo Silva with Arda Guler while discussing the best option for a central midfield playmaking role. Although he praised both players, he favoured the experience of the Manchester City midfielder in that specific position.

“For me, Bernardo Silva is even better than Guler as a central midfielder and playmaker because he has more experience of what that role requires,” Alcorta said.

He was equally positive when assessing Yan Diomande, praising the player’s contribution at both ends of the pitch.

“What a player Diomande is. He is everywhere, helps in defence, contributes in attack and poses a threat to the opposition,” Alcorta said.

That balance between defensive responsibility and attacking danger was central to Alcorta’s argument for retaining the side that started the Clasico. He believes the line-up demonstrated that it could create chances while also protecting the team without the ball.

Based on what he saw against Barcelona, Alcorta wants Mourinho to use the same XI in matches requiring the highest level of readiness. Under that approach, Vinicius Junior would be expected to wait for his opportunity from the substitutes’ bench.

The listed La Liga schedule includes Barcelona against Deportivo Alaves on 31 October 2026, while Racing Santander and Real Madrid are listed for matches on 01 November 2026.