Real Madrid coach José Mourinho left Vinícius Júnior out of the starting lineup against Villarreal, citing the forward’s poor form this season. The Brazilian has scored just one goal in eight appearances and struggled during Brazil’s international break matches. Summer signing Yan Diomande started on the left wing alongside Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Güler at the Bernabéu.
Mourinho expressed sadness over Vinícius’s struggles, saying the player wants to be the difference-maker but is not currently at that level. He hinted at a possible plan to help the forward recover form, even if it means benching him temporarily. Vinícius has faced fan whistles recently and was the 2024 Ballon d’Or runner-up.
He signed a long-term contract extension until 2032 after months of negotiations.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing