Jose Mourinho Backs Vinicius Junior Amid Bernabeu Whistles in Real Madrid's Champions League Win
Jose Mourinho came to the defense of Vinicius Junior following boos from the Real Madrid supporters during their 2-1 Champions League victory against Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Brazilian winger was substituted late in the game, prompting frustrated reactions from the home crowd who were displeased with his subdued performance.
Madrid Edge Inter with Mbappe and Valverde Goals
Kylian Mbappe and Federico Valverde scored as Real Madrid secured all three points in their opening group stage match. Despite the win, the mood at the stadium turned sour when Vinicius left the pitch in the 87th minute amid whistles from fans unhappy with his inability to break through Inter’s sturdy defense.
Mourinho Acknowledges Vinicius' Struggles but Praises Effort
After the match, Mourinho admitted that Vinicius is not performing at his peak but emphasized his defensive contributions. He explained that fatigue played a significant role in the winger’s struggles late in the match.
"He isn’t at his best, and he knows it," Mourinho said. "But he’s working hard to be the Vinicius who decides games. Even when not at his best, he’s giving more effort than ever."
"When he couldn’t drop back and defend, it was due to tiredness. I respect him a lot for that. The time will come when he will decide and win us games."
The coach also highlighted the tactical challenges posed by Inter’s wing-back system, making it tough for Madrid’s wide players.
"If he keeps working, he’ll always have my support," Mourinho added. "He worked very hard. Against a team playing three at the back with wing-backs, wingers face tough battles. Vinicius had one-on-ones on the left wing; if he was at his best, he would have killed the game. But he gave everything."
Vinicius Faces Difficult Period at Real Madrid
This moment adds to a challenging phase for the forward. After a tough 2025-26 season marked by criticism from Madrid fans, Vinicius renewed his contract this summer. Yet, his start to the new campaign has been slow, with just one goal and two assists in five matches.
Madrid's Squad Issues and Tactical Adjustments
Mourinho’s side also dealt with absences due to suspensions for Bernardo Silva, Arda Guler, and Eduardo Camavinga. This forced the manager to use Trent Alexander-Arnold out of position in central midfield. Mourinho praised Trent’s efforts despite the physical and tactical challenges.
"It’s hard for Trent," Mourinho said. "I appreciate his effort, but his characteristics differ between full-back and central midfield physically. He lost the ball a few times because playing with the whole field ahead is very different than having half behind you. He did well but couldn’t give more."
Upcoming Matches Offer Chance for Redemption
Vinicius will have a chance to regain favor with the Bernabeu crowd soon as Real Madrid hosts Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Saturday. After the international break, Madrid will travel to Rome to face Serie A leaders Roma. Following their narrow win over Inter, this fixture will reunite Mourinho with another former club as Madrid aims to build on their Champions League start.
- LaLiga Fixture: Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano - 12 Sept 2026, 21:00
- Serie A Fixture: Inter Milan vs Udinese - 14 Sept 2026, 20:45
