Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has warned Vinicius Junior that no player is guaranteed a place in his starting XI ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash with RB Leipzig.
The Brazilian has endured a difficult start to the season, scoring just once in all competitions, and faces increasing competition for his place from summer signing Yan Diomande.
Vinicius is currently serving a four-match suspension in LaLiga but remains available in Europe, where he struggled during last week’s dramatic 4-3 win over Roma.
He was substituted after 58 minutes, with replacement Endrick helping inspire Madrid’s comeback.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Mourinho made clear that reputation and previous achievements would not guarantee anyone a place in his team.
“Only the badge is untouchable,” Mourinho said.
“I don’t like the concept of ‘untouchable’ players. What makes players untouchable isn’t a captain’s armband, or how long they’ve been at the club, or their status. What makes a player untouchable is performance.”
Mourinho has always supported Vinicius despite his struggles, but recent performances from other attacking players have given the Portuguese manager additional options.
“As I said recently, I’m not a stubborn coach,” he explained.
“There are coaches who have an idea, and live or die by that idea. I’m not that kind of coach, I’m always open to analyse, to understand things and look for the best for the team.”
Mourinho plays down Real Madrid’s Champions League ambitions
Madrid have won their opening two Champions League matches against Inter Milan and Roma, but Mourinho refused to describe his side as contenders for the trophy.
“It’s very early,” he said.
“Right now Real Madrid don’t have the objective of winning the Champions League. We have the objective of qualifying [for the knockout phase].
“Then, if we get the points that allow us to qualify, then we get to our second objective, to try to avoid the playoffs, which are two games with tension, and they’re games you can avoid.”
Madrid also face a big challenge in LaLiga, sitting six points behind Barcelona ahead of Sunday’s Clasico at Camp Nou.
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