– Wants his place back at Real Madrid
He was benched in Madrid, but hit back in style for Brazil. Now Vinicius Junior has sent a crystal clear signal to José Mourinho: “I want my starting spot back.
Manchester United manager Mauricio Pochettino demands director of football sacking Jason Wilcox
The trip to Brazil was the salvation
Vinicius Junior used the international break to send a message to the Real Madrid boss. The Brazilian winger scored two goals against Japan – two magnificent strikes that came at a critical time for his immediate future at the White club.
After losing prominence at Real Madrid and with question marks over his place in the starting eleven, the striker in the national team found the perfect stage to assert himself.
The match ended in a 3-2 Brazilian loss, but the result does not overshadow Vinicius’ individual performance. The Madrid player scored two high-quality goals and once again showed the ability to create imbalance that has made him one of the world’s most crucial footballers. It was also his first double goal since May, according to El Español.
| Key facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | Japan 3-2 Brazil |
| Vinicius’ contributions | 2 goals |
| First double goal since | May |
| Message | Wants to return to Real Madrid’s starting eleven |
Two magnificent goals – and a signal that form is back
The first goal came while Brazil was trailing on the scoreboard. Vinicius received the ball with his back to goal near the edge of the penalty area, controlled it, turned and fired a powerful shot that ended up in the top corner of the Japanese goal. An action reminiscent of the explosive striker who has so often decided games for Real Madrid.
The second goal came in the 75th minute. From his usual position on the left wing, he received the ball, found space and finished just inside the post. Two finishes in different styles – but with one common denominator: confidence, determination and the ability to decide.
The performance provides a long-awaited morale boost for a player who needed to get back to his feelings. In his last few games for Real Madrid, he had failed to make a difference, and the internal competition had begun to threaten his starting spot.
Mourinho no longer guarantees a place
It has already been reported on Fichajes.net that Vinicius is no longer untouchable for Mourinho. The Portuguese coach retains confidence in the Brazilian and wants to help him return to his best level – but the emergence of Yan Diomande has changed the situation.
The Ivory Coast international took advantage of Vinicius’ absence in LaLiga due to suspension and secured a place in the team. His performances, along with his defensive commitment, have convinced the coach. Therefore, the Brazilian’s return does not automatically mean that he will get his starting spot back.
| Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Option 1 | Vinicius back to left – Diomande moves to the right |
| Option 2 | Diomande keeps his place – Vinicius starts on the bench |
A knock on the coach’s door
The two goals against Japan came at the best possible time for Vinicius. The striker needed footballing arguments to claim his place – and responded with a high-level performance. It’s no guarantee of a starting spot, but it’s a sign that he still has the resources to make a difference.
Real Madrid–Celta on November 21 will be the first opportunity to consider Mourinho’s decision. The coach will have to consider whether to keep the formula that has worked in the Brazilian’s absence – or bet on his star again.
Vinicius has done his bit at half-time. The double is a knock on Mourinho’s door: he wants to get back into the starting eleven – and has reminded everyone that he still has what it takes to be a crucial piece for Real Madrid. ⚽🇧🇷
Jack Grealish had to apologize to play
