Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has admitted that he would have forced an exit from the Spanish giants if he were Vinicius Junior, saying the Brazilian forward deserves to play in an environment where he receives greater respect.
Mourinho made the remarks while defending the 26-year-old winger, who has repeatedly faced hostility from opposition supporters and suffered racial abuse since joining Real Madrid in 2018.
The Portuguese tactician praised Vinicius for maintaining his positive attitude despite the challenges, describing him as a player who continues to approach life and football with a smile despite the pressure surrounding his career.
“If it were me in his place, probably I wouldn’t be here. In this last summer I would have forced an exit to a league, a country, to somewhere there are rival clubs and stadiums that respect him,” Mourinho said.
Despite the difficulties, Vinicius has remained committed to Real Madrid, signing a new contract in the summer that will keep him at the club until 2032.
Mourinho believes the Brazilian’s attachment to the club and the city has played a significant role in his decision to stay, despite having other opportunities available to him.
“Because he loves Real Madrid, for loving the club and the city, for believing that things can always improve, he renewed and he keeps on smiling,” the manager added.
Vinicius has been at the centre of renewed attention following his dismissal during Real Madrid’s victory over Villarreal last weekend. The winger received a red card for pulling an opponent’s hair and was subsequently handed a four-match suspension.
The punishment means he will miss several domestic fixtures, including the highly anticipated El Clásico against Barcelona on October 25.
Mourinho expressed satisfaction that the suspension was limited to four matches, suggesting he had expected the disciplinary authorities to impose a longer ban.
The Brazilian’s absence presents another challenge for Real Madrid as they attempt to maintain their position in the La Liga title race.
The winger has played an important role in the club’s recent successes, including their Champions League triumphs under former manager Carlo Ancelotti. His pace, dribbling ability and attacking movement have made him one of the team’s most influential players.
However, questions remain over how effectively Real Madrid can balance their attacking resources, particularly with Vinicius, Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham all competing for prominent roles in the side.
Mourinho recently substituted Vinicius during Real Madrid’s dramatic 4-3 Champions League victory over Roma, a decision that attracted attention amid discussions about the forward’s current form and role within the team.
Nevertheless, the manager’s latest comments suggest that he continues to value the Brazilian’s contribution and admires his resilience in the face of criticism.
Vinicius has also become a prominent figure in football’s wider fight against racism, following repeated incidents involving discriminatory abuse directed at him by opposition supporters.
His experiences have intensified discussions about the responsibilities of football authorities, clubs and supporters in tackling racism and ensuring players can compete without facing discrimination.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have become embroiled in a separate dispute with La Liga president Javier Tebas following comments comparing the club’s efforts to challenge refereeing decisions with propaganda techniques associated with Nazi Germany.
The club called for Tebas to resign, while the league president subsequently sought to clarify his remarks.
Asked about the controversy, Mourinho declined to discuss it extensively but criticised the comments and said there were limits to what could be excused.
The dispute adds to the tensions surrounding Spanish football at a time when Real Madrid are seeking to close the gap on league leaders Barcelona.
For Vinicius, the immediate priority will be serving his suspension before returning to action. His long-term commitment to Real Madrid suggests that he remains determined to continue his career at the club despite the hostility he has encountered.
Mourinho’s comments have nevertheless highlighted the personal challenges facing the Brazilian and the importance of creating an environment where players feel respected both on and off the pitch.
