Jose Mourinho's striking comments came on 17/10, during a press conference ahead of Real Madrid's La Liga matchday 9 clash against Sevilla. The Portuguese coach stated, "If I were Vinicius, in his shoes, I probably wouldn't be here anymore. Last summer, I would have found every way to leave, to a league, a country, a club, or stadiums where people respected me." This sentiment highlights the immense pressure Vinicius has faced recently at the Bernabeu. Despite being a pivotal player in Real's Champions League victories in 2022 and 2024, and a Ballon d'Or candidate, the Brazilian forward has experienced a dip in form in recent seasons, often subjected to boos and whistles from home fans. He extended his contract until 2032 in August, even with interest from clubs like Arsenal.

Mourinho believes Vinicius's strong affection for Real Madrid is what keeps him at the club. "The Special One" revealed he often speaks privately with Vinicius daily, commending the Brazilian's ability to maintain a positive mindset under pressure. Elaborating further, Mourinho explained, "Vinicius signed a new contract because Madrid is his home, and Real is also his home. Vinicius gets along with everyone in the locker room and is a source of positive energy for the team. I'm truly not sure I would have Vinicius's mental strength to stay, especially when he received so many offers."

Coach Jose Mourinho (right) watches Vinicius dribble during Real's 4-0 win against Malaga in La Liga at the Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain on 30/8. Photo: Reuters

The recent Champions League qualifying round second leg against Roma saw Vinicius substituted in the 59th minute, with Real trailing 1-3. Mourinho expressed his frustration when Vinicius lost possession, leading to Roma's second goal, particularly as Real was in control at that point. The Portuguese coach attributed Vinicius's difficulties in the match to Roma's tactical focus on his and Cucurella's flank, with Soule, Wesley, and Mancini consistently applying pressure. Real adjusted their strategy in the second half to counter this. Mourinho suggested Vinicius should have retained possession or attempted to win a free kick rather than risking a difficult play.

Mourinho clarified that Vinicius's substitution was a tactical decision, one of Real's 5 changes, and not a punishment. He added that Vinicius needs to train more during his current La Liga suspension and did not rule out his return to the starting lineup for the match against RB Leipzig on 21/10.

Another contentious issue at the press conference was the ongoing dispute between Real Madrid and La Liga President Javier Tebas. On 16/10, Real demanded Tebas's resignation after he controversially compared Real Madrid TV's operations to Nazi propaganda. Mourinho declined to comment extensively on the matter, stating, "Don't talk about it. I don't want to discuss it. Limits have been crossed. Unless it's a pathological problem, I see no justification." "The Special One" believes Real fans are increasingly aware of the challenges the team faces. He urged that the story should not spread beyond Spain, emphasizing the significant international reputation of Spanish football, with the Federation boasting a reigning world champion national team and La Liga home to the most important club globally.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, AS)