Real Madrid Manager Addresses Vinicius Jr.'s Future Amid Saudi Links: 'It’s Not Up To Me'

Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa has confessed that the club's ongoing contract standoff with Vinicius Junior is completely out of his hands, despite expressing his desperate hope that the Brazilian superstar remains at the Bernabeu. The future of the Ballon d'Or contender remains uncertain, with the forward's representatives currently in the capital, yet fresh speculation over a lucrative exit refuses to disappear.

The Madrid boss has found himself immediately thrust into the centre of one of European football’s most delicate sagas. Vinicius has seen his contract renewal talks frozen since last summer, a situation that has cast a long shadow over the season. While reports suggest the Brazilian’s stance has softened following the departure of former manager Xabi Alonso, no official progress has been made, leaving the door ajar for speculation regarding interest from the Saudi Pro League to resurface.

When pressed on whether he could influence the situation, Arbeloa offered a candid admission of his limitations. The former full-back made it clear that while his desire is to keep the winger, the negotiations are being handled far above his pay grade.

"It’s not up to me, it’s a matter for the club and the player," Arbeloa told the press, distancing himself from the boardroom politics. However, he did not hide his admiration for the player, adding: "Of course, I hope he continues to make history here."

Beyond the future of his star forward, Arbeloa also faced questions regarding potential reinforcements for the wider squad. With Real Madrid enduring a turbulent season that led to Alonso’s exit, many have pointed to a lack of depth as a critical issue. However, Arbeloa steadfastly refused to demand new signings publicly,