Xabi Alonso has said he "won't make a big deal" of Vinícius Júnior 's unhappiness at being substituted during Real Madrid 's 2-0 win over Espanyol on Saturday.

The Brazil international looked upset when he was withdrawn in the 77th minute of the LaLiga game at the Santiago Bernabéu -- replaced by Rodrygo -- having performed well on his return to the team, after being left out of the side in midweek.

On Saturday, Alonso admitted he "could have waited a bit longer" to make the change, saying Vini was "doing well" before the switch, but he "wanted some fresh legs out wide."

"I've been a player too," Alonso said in a news conference on Monday -- ahead of Madrid's game at Levante -- when asked about Vinícius. "When I was substituted, it isn't always the nicest moment. It's normal

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