José Mourinho, Real Madrid's coach, faces numerous challenges this season, among the most prominent being how to handle the team's star, Vinícius Júnior, and restore his best form.
Mourinho succeeded in his first test with Real Madrid, as Los Merengues managed to defeat Espanyol 2-1. However, Vinícius did not perform well and continued to stir controversy.
Vinícius has been below his usual standard with Real Madrid for about two seasons, yet the royal club renewed the player's contract until June 2032 and remains keen on keeping the Brazilian international within their ranks.
The newspaper 'Marca' reported that Mourinho chose to support Vinícius. The Special One defended the Brazilian star after Real Madrid's match against Espanyol, assuring the player behind the scenes that he stands by him and will continue to do so, a stance Vinícius has acknowledged.
The report added that Vinícius did not appear as expected against Espanyol; he preferred engaging in sideline altercations with opposing players and received a yellow card on Saturday. Nevertheless, Mourinho believes Vinícius needs support, especially after the Brazilian star faced boos from the fans during the match, prompting the Portuguese coach to defend him publicly after the final whistle.
After the match, Mourinho affirmed that Vinícius is not an angel, but the 26-year-old player endures excessive abuse, and what is happening to him is exaggerated.
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It was clarified that Mourinho did not justify Vinícius's actions. The Special One knows the left winger needs self-control, must manage his emotions, and avoid letting provocations distract him from matches. However, this does not diminish his importance as a player for Real Madrid. Mourinho has no doubt about Vinícius's capabilities and made sure to speak with him privately after the Espanyol match.
Mourinho reassured Vinícius, considering him one of the most important players at Real Madrid. The Portuguese coach needs a player capable of turning the tide of a match, wingers who are not afraid to receive the ball on the flanks, dribble past defenders, and force the opposing team to retreat. Vinícius fits these specifications.
Mourinho realizes that Vinícius's style of play creates space for Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé to move inside the penalty area. Meanwhile, the Brazilian international possesses great ability to exploit spaces, posing a significant threat to the opposing team.
Marca confirmed that Mourinho desires an aggressive and strong version of Real Madrid and knows well that Vinícius embodies these traits. The Brazilian international is considered capable of shouldering responsibility and playing with great passion.
It was clarified that there is no cause for concern regarding Vinícius's performance against Espanyol. Mourinho knows the season has just begun, and the Brazilian winger still has time to improve physically. His level will further enhance with more matches and better understanding with his teammates.
For Mourinho, the question is not whether Vinícius is an important player for Real Madrid, but rather to what extent he can develop. The Brazilian international represents an attractive challenge for the Special One: extracting the best from his players and helping them reach their maximum potential.