Jose Mourinho has suggested that Vinicius Junior should have left Real Madrid during the summer transfer window, saying he would have sought a move to a club where he felt more respected.
The Portuguese manager made the comments amid growing scrutiny of the Brazilian winger, who has faced criticism from sections of the Santiago Bernabeu crowd following a dip in form.
Vinicius is also serving a four-match La Liga suspension after receiving a straight red card against Villarreal, while his relationship with Mourinho came under the spotlight following his substitution during Real Madrid’s 4-3 Champions League comeback victory over Roma.
The 26-year-old was withdrawn after losing possession in the build-up to Roma’s second goal, with Madrid trailing 3-1 at the time. Substitute Endrick later helped inspire the comeback.
Speaking ahead of Madrid’s league meeting with Sevilla, Mourinho said he was surprised by Vinicius’ ability to withstand the criticism and pressure surrounding him.
“If I were [Vinicius], in his place, I probably wouldn’t be here,” Mourinho told reporters.
“Last summer I would have forced my exit to a league, to a country, to clubs and stadiums where they’d respect him.”
However, Mourinho acknowledged that Vinicius’ attachment to Madrid had played a role in his decision to remain at the club, despite reported interest from Arsenal and other Premier League sides.
The winger signed a contract extension that runs until 2032, ending speculation over a possible departure during the summer.
Mourinho added: “When he signed that contract, he signed it because Madrid is his home, and Real Madrid is his home.
“What I said before was that I doubt I’d be able – as a player with lots of options – I doubt whether I’d be able to have his psychological strength, to hold on.”
Vinicius, meanwhile, defended his reaction to being substituted against Roma, admitting that he was unhappy to leave the pitch early but insisting that his desire to help the team remained unchanged.
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He said: “It’s only natural for me to be angry when I’m substituted, because I always want to play every minute, to be at my best and help the team.”
The Brazilian also reflected on the criticism he had faced since joining Madrid, expressing confidence that he would rediscover his best form.
“When I was 18, many people laughed at me, saying I wouldn’t score any goals – and today, I have over 100 with this jersey.
Many have doubted me… the good form will return, and the goals will come back; I’m certain of that – I have no doubt at all,” he said.
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