Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has defended Vinicius Junior after the Brazilian was booed by his own supporters during Wednesday’s 4-1 Champions League win over RB Leipzig.
Vinicius has endured a difficult start to the season, scoring just once in 11 appearances, and was again unable to find the net at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 26-year-old was substituted in the 70th minute, with sections of the home crowd making their frustration clear.
Speaking after the match, Mourinho admitted that criticism from home supporters can be particularly difficult for players to handle.
“When you are on the pitch and you are whistled when playing away, often it’s a boost to your motivation. When it’s at home, it hurts,” he said.
“Only he can say whether he feels sad, but I am pleased.
“Vini put in a good tactical performance. Vini defended very well. He then had a chance to score a brilliant goal, but the goalkeeper made a great save.
“Work, work. He cannot play but he can work his physique with an individualised plan,” he told TNT Sports Brazil.
“But I was happy with his performance. Ok, he didn’t score, he wasn’t man of the match but he had a good game for the team.”
Mbappe urges Vinicius to stay confident
Mbappe also offered his support after another frustrating evening for his attacking team-mate.
The Frenchman was named player of the match after assisting Madrid’s second goal and scoring their third.
Despite Vinicius’ struggles, Mbappe believes his frustration demonstrates how much he cares about performing for the club.
“He’s doing well,” Mbappe said.
“It’s good that he’s upset because it means he wants to give a lot to the team and the fans.
“I think he just needs to stay calm and proud of who he is. A great player must always take pride in who they are and gain confidence because the quality is there.”
Vinicius appeared to acknowledge his difficult situation on social media after the game, writing: “Living in the moment. Everything passes.”
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