Why didn’t Vinícius Júnior start for Real Madrid against Mallorca today in LaLiga?

Vinicius Jr was left out of Real Madrid’s starting XI for the game against Mallorca at Son Moix.

The Brazilian winger played against Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League rivals Manchester City on Tuesday in a game that saw the two sides draw 3-3 in a match that will live long in the memory.

The return leg will be played next week on Wednesday at 3pm ET /noon PT, meaning that there is not a long time for the player, who will certainly be a key player in the game, to rest. There is no injury or suspension to Vini Jr, it is purely a tactical decision to allow the player to recover.

Why is Rodrygo not playing for Real Madrid against Mallorca?

Carlo Ancelotti also left out Rodrygo Goes in his starting XI, preferring to play both Joselu and Brahim Díaz, two forwards who have seen less minutes than the Brazilian duo. Clearly, Ancelotti has the game against City on his mind.

It is not a strange decision from Carlo: Guardiola also rested key players against Luton, such as Phil Foden and Rodri, who have both become key parts of City’s all-conquering side.

Real Madrid play Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League on on Wednesday 17 April 2024. Kick-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET/ 12 noon PT.