Jose Mourinho Backs Vinicius Junior Despite Bernabeu Whistles in Real Madrid's Win Over Inter
Vinicius Junior Faces Criticism During Real Madrid’s Narrow Champions League Victory
Jose Mourinho defended Vinicius Junior after the Real Madrid forward was booed by home fans during their 2-1 Champions League win against Serie A champions Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Brazilian winger was substituted late in the match, with supporters showing frustration over his subdued performance.
Real Madrid Secure Win Amid Fan Discontent
Kylian Mbappe and Federico Valverde scored as Real Madrid claimed victory to start their Champions League group stage campaign. Though the team earned all three points, the mood at the Bernabeu turned sour when Vinicius Junior left the field in the 87th minute to boos from the crowd. Fans were unhappy as the winger struggled to break down a stubborn Italian defense.
Mourinho Stands Firm in Support of Vinicius
After the match, Mourinho acknowledged that Vinicius is not currently playing at his best but emphasized the player's intense defensive work and effort despite fatigue late in the game.
"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 working harder than ever."
The coach pointed out that moments when Vinicius couldn’t track back were due to exhaustion, something Mourinho respects deeply. He expressed confidence that Vinicius will return to form and make decisive contributions for the team.
"If he works, he’ll always have my support," Mourinho added. "Playing against a team with wing-backs like Inter makes it tough for wingers. With the one-on-ones on the left wing, at his best, Vinicius would change the game. But he gave everything."
Challenges Facing Vinicius and Real Madrid
The boos add to a tough period for Vinicius, who endured criticism throughout the 2025-26 season but renewed his commitment to Real Madrid this summer. His start to the current campaign has been underwhelming by his standards, with just one goal and two assists in five appearances.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid face broader squad issues. Suspensions to key players like Bernardo Silva, Arda Guler, and Eduardo Camavinga forced Mourinho to play Trent Alexander-Arnold out of position in central midfield. Mourinho praised Alexander-Arnold’s effort but noted the physical differences and challenges of adapting to a new role.
"It’s hard for Trent," Mourinho explained. "I appreciate his effort, but playing full-back and central midfield requires different physical traits. He lost the ball a few times because it’s a different kind of play. He didn’t have more to give."
Vinicius Looks to Rebuild Trust at the Bernabeu
Vinicius will have an immediate chance to win back the demanding Real Madrid fans when they host Rayo Vallecano in La Liga this Saturday. Afterward, European action pauses for the international break before Los Blancos travel to face Serie A side Roma. Following the recent victory over Inter, Mourinho will again face a former club as Madrid aims to build momentum in both domestic and continental competitions.
- La Liga Fixture: Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano - 12 Sept 2026, 21:00
- Serie A Fixture: Udinese vs Inter - 14 Sept 2026, 20:45
