Rafael Alkorta Warns Vinicius Jr Over Contract Talks with Real Madrid President Florentino Perez

Former Real Madrid defender, Rafael Alkorta, has sounded a note of caution to Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr, warning him to tread carefully in his ongoing contract negotiations with club president Florentino Perez.

Speaking via Madrid Universal, Alkorta reminded Vinicius of the fate of club legend Sergio Ramos, who famously saw his contract offer withdrawn in 2023 despite years of loyalty and achievements at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“Trying to squeeze Florentino Perez can go wrong. Let’s remember what happened with Ramos,” Alkorta cautioned.
He further described battles with Perez as “poisonous,” noting:

“Florentino is affectionate, but he does not hesitate to make tough decisions.”

Beyond contract talks, Alkorta also expressed concern over Vinicius’ recent performances. Since being moved from his favoured left wing role to a central position—a tactical shift made by former manager Carlo Ancelotti to accommodate Kylian Mbappe—the Brazilian has struggled to find his usual rhythm.
“Since they took him off the left wing, I haven’t seen him well. Playing with Mbappe has cost him,” Alkorta added.

Vinicius’ current deal runs until 2027, but discussions for an improved contract have been ongoing for months, with Madrid eager to secure the 24-year-old’s long-term commitment.

Opinion

Vinicius Jr is undoubtedly one of Real Madrid’s most electrifying players of the modern era, but Alkorta’s warning cannot be taken lightly. The history of Perez’s reign shows a ruthless streak—club legends like Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo eventually left under tense circumstances despite their iconic status.

For Vinicius, the challenge is twofold: reclaiming his best form while navigating the tricky waters of negotiation with a president who values principle and control as much as star power. His dip in performance since moving away from the left flank is another complication, especially as Mbappe cements himself as Madrid’s attacking focal point.

The lesson here? No player, however talented, is bigger than Real Madrid. Vinicius must balance ambition with humility, ensuring that his contract talks don’t overshadow his football. If handled wrongly, this saga could risk turning a fairytale into a cautionary tale—one Madridistas have seen before.

Still, if Vinicius rediscovers his spark and handles negotiations wisely, he could cement his place not just as Mbappe’s partner, but as one of the defining faces of Real Madrid’s next golden era.