Vinicius faces scrutiny after being substituted in Rome

Vinicius has become the main focus at Real Madrid. The Brazilian is in the spotlight after receiving a four-match LaLiga sanction, made public before the match in Rome. He and Mourinho complained about the punishment being announced. On the pitch in Rome, Mourinho also opted to take Vinicius off: after the 2-1 move, he substituted him and brought on Endrick.

Real Madrid’s comeback in Rome, which ended 4-3, did not put that episode behind Vinicius. His form has also made him a central talking point. In Rome, he again showed he could influence the game, although his actions also created danger for Roma. After the 3-1, Mourinho ended his involvement in the match.

Vinicius acknowledged that he was not at his best and accepted the need to make way: «You always want to play every minute, but I know my situation and how I’m playing. I’m here to help, and sometimes you have to come off so other players can play and change the dynamic», he said after the match. He also insisted: «I know I’m not at my best […] the good run will return, I have no doubt, and I’m here to help the team.»

The Brazilian is in a difficult moment: he is going through a poor spell and has become a leading target for Real Madrid supporters. During the comeback, the team went from being dominated to dominating, while Vinicius watched the rest from the bench, unhappy to have been taken off. He is aware of his dip in form. If the four-match LaLiga sanction stands, the Champions League will be his only opportunity to play for more than a month.