José Mourinho takes a protective stance toward Vini Jr at Real Madrid following past controversies, vehemently criticizing officials for an alleged lack of respect toward the Brazilian star.
José Mourinho‘s latest tenure at Real Madrid has begun in an atypical fashion. Staying away from the media spotlight and offering rare public statements, the Portuguese manager was Florentino Pérez‘s bet to rebuild a team coming off a trophy-less season under Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa. This return, however, is already marked by a notable shift in the manager’s relationship with one of his main stars: Vini Jr.
The core of this transformation is Mourinho‘s public and energetic defense of the Brazilian forward, a striking contrast to their past interactions. The “Special One”‘s stance suggests a new era at the Santiago Bernabéu, focused on protecting his players and combating disrespect both on and off the pitch.
Behind the Scenes of the Renewal and Key Signings
In his first few days in charge of Real Madrid, Mourinho focused on resolving fundamental issues, such as Vini Jr‘s contract renewal. The forward, entering the final year of his deal, had been a target for Arsenal. The Portuguese manager worked behind the scenes to convince the player to remain at Valdebebas for the 2026/27 season.
According to Mourinho, the feeling of a “growing group” was crucial to Vini Jr‘s decision. The arrival of reinforcements such as Yan Diomande, Denzel Dumfries, and Marc Cucurella has strengthened the squad and signaled an ambitious new project for a team seeking to dominate both LaLiga and the Champions League.
From the Clash at Benfica to Protection at Real Madrid
The relationship between Mourinho and Vini Jr has not always been harmonious. During the 2025/26 season, when the coach was managing Benfica, there was an on-field disagreement after Vini Jr accused Gianluca Prestianni of making a racist slur during a Champions League match. At the time, Mourinho defended his own player, Prestianni.
The incident even led to a new FIFA and UEFA rule during the World Cup, prohibiting players from covering their mouths during discussions. Now, at Real Madrid, the manager’s outlook is different.
The answer is simple: Prestianni was my player. And that’s it, there is nothing more to discuss. Now Vini knows which side I am on. The other day, when they didn’t call a penalty in his favor, I was on the pitch fighting for him.
Criticism of Refereeing and the New Scenario at the Club
Mourinho‘s change in stance goes beyond individual support. The manager expressed strong dissatisfaction with the officiating, believing that Vini Jr does not receive due respect on the pitch. This direct criticism highlights the Portuguese coach’s intention to protect his stars, a factor that could influence the atmosphere in LaLiga.
“People need to learn how to behave with him, and I am talking about the referees. You cannot call a penalty for one player and not for Vinicius, protect one player and not Vinicius. They do not respect him,” the manager reiterated.
This new chapter at Real Madrid, with Mourinho leading a squad that features talents such as Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo (who is recovering from an injury), promises to be intense. The manager’s public defense of Vini Jr and his criticism of the referees set a combative tone for the season.
Mourinho‘s return to Real Madrid, marked by this strong protective stance regarding Vini Jr and refereeing, signals a season in which the club will seek not only trophies but also a reaffirmation of its image and an uncompromising defense of its athletes. The hope is that this new dynamic will propel the team toward success in LaLiga and the Champions League, while the debate over racism in football gains a powerful defender.
