Vinicius Jr's frustrated reaction when he was substituted against Barcelona was not a sign of total rebellion or a hint at an immediate departure.
It was, however, another reflection of a growing tension between the Brazilian star and his Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso - one that will need delicate management if it's not to escalate further.
Yes, or at least he has thought about it.
When Vinicius muttered "I'm going to leave this team" as he was replaced in Sunday's El Clasico win, it wasn't a new thought. That idea had already surfaced at the end of the last transfer window.
No formal offer ever arrived, and those close to the player later recognised the comments were largely emotional, a reaction to a clash with Alonso before the Club World Cup match against Paris St-Germain.
