Jose Mourinho has issued a passionate defense of Vinicius Junior after the Brazil international was subjected to whistles from sections of the Santiago Bernabeu support during Real Madrid’s 2-1 Champions League victory over Inter Milan. Despite securing three points in their European opener thanks to an opening goal from Kylian Mbappe—who moved into the competition’s all-time top five goalscorers alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi—the win was marred by crowd frustration directed at the team’s star forwards. As Vinicius was substituted late in the 87th minute for Alvaro Carreras, scattered jeers echoed across the stands. The 25-year-old winger responded by applauding the crowd, prompting Mourinho to physically escort him off the pitch with sustained applause, a warm embrace, and several pats on the back in a clear public show of solidarity.
Addressing the crowd’s reaction after the final whistle, Mourinho demanded respect for the Brazilian while citing a traditional Portuguese proverb, reminding observers that people only throw stones at trees that bear fruit. The Real Madrid manager, who returned for a second stint at the club following the departure of Xabi Alonso, clarified that his position stemmed from a coach’s perspective rather than an attack on the fans. Mourinho noted that while Vinicius was not currently displaying his signature ability to beat defenders one-on-one, his defensive work rate and tactical discipline were vital against an Inter setup that utilized three center-backs and wing-backs, which restricted space for natural wingers. He acknowledged that the forward is fully aware he is not at his physical peak due to recent fatigue, but reiterated that his hard work will inevitably lead back to match-winning performances.
The strain between Vinicius and the Bernabeu faithful follows a demanding 2025-26 season that was similarly marked by criticism from supporters. Although the winger committed his long-term future to the club this summer, his current contract expires in 2027, and ongoing fan hostility has reportedly left him hesitant to sign an extension. The mental impact of the whistles comes during a slow statistical start to the campaign, with the forward tallying one goal and two assists across his first five appearances. To counter the tension, key figures inside the squad have publicly called for solidarity. Mbappe defended his fellow attacker despite facing jeers himself during the midweek victory, while Alvaro Arbeloa has urged unity across the club, recognizing that a confident Vinicius remains central to Real Madrid’s ambitions.
Mourinho further emphasized that a player who works tirelessly for the team will always retain his respect and affection, even if tactical adjustments mean they do not complete every 90 minutes. Pointing to mid-game adjustments, the coach highlighted how Brahim performed very well after coming on to help unlock Inter’s compact defensive shape. Real Madrid now pivot back to domestic competition as they prepare to host a Madrid derby against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Saturday. The fixture presents Vinicius with an immediate opportunity on home turf to answer his critics, regain his sharpest form, and mend his connection with the Bernabeu support.
