Real Madrid turns to Mourinho to revive Vinícius

Real Madrid is portrayed as fascinated by Vinícius, with José Mourinho said to have devised a plan to save the player described as the team’s “heart”. The challenge extends beyond the pitch: despite a dip in form and recent criticism, Vinícius Júnior retains a special place at the club, which is relying on Mourinho to help him return to his best and to address matters inside and beyond the dressing room.

The revival is presented as a sporting and administrative priority, particularly after Real Madrid renewed Vinícius’s contract for 25 million euros a year over six seasons. The club’s leaders believe he is important to the team, but also value his role in maintaining unity. He is said to connect different groups in the dressing room and to have close relationships with Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Federico Valverde and his Brazilian teammates.

The plan is intended to bring Vinícius back to his usual level and restore his confidence, including with the supporters. The aim is for the “heart of the team” to regain influence both on the pitch and in the dressing room.

One episode involving Mourinho illustrated that show of support. After Vinícius scored against Villarreal, before the goal was disallowed, the Portuguese coach celebrated with him. The scene was also described as an attempt to rebuild the player’s relationship with supporters at the Santiago Bernabéu, who had jeered him at most matches of the season. Mourinho ran towards the player and celebrated the goal enthusiastically.

The backing reportedly went beyond public gestures: Mourinho also had several private conversations with Vinícius after taking up his post. Their ability to speak Portuguese reportedly gave them more room to communicate freely and clearly. Meanwhile, some details of Vinícius’s daily programme were changed in coordination with the technical staff and his fitness trainers, and the player committed to changing his habits.

The current situation differs from the period when Xabi Alonso left Vinícius on the bench. The club’s leadership now considers his level to have fallen considerably, with the player appearing less quick and energetic than in the past. Mourinho is therefore tasked with reviving a figure central to the club’s sporting project and of significant financial value.