Vinícius’ decline leaves Real and Mourinho facing a dilemma

Vinícius’ decline has left Real and Mourinho facing a difficult choice. The Brazilian forward is going through a tough period, and his current level makes managing his playing time more complicated: his standing in the team makes it difficult to leave him out, while his performances are raising questions.

Mourinho defended him at a press conference and sought to play down Vinícius’ anger after being substituted. But the coach knows the situation remains difficult. Given his current level, Vinícius could fall behind several players in the pecking order, with some teammates who have so far had fewer opportunities potentially moving ahead of him. As long as positive results continue, however, Mourinho can keep him on the pitch.

The dilemma also concerns the team’s balance. Vinícius is portrayed as difficult to replace because of his position within the squad, but his contribution is also described as a limitation for the team. Going forward, he is not scoring, creating chances or unsettling opponents. Defensively, his contribution is considered almost non-existent.

Mourinho acknowledged that Gasperini had dismantled Real Madrid’s defence down that side after pressing Cucurella, who had not received support from his teammate. The Portuguese coach had also switched Vinícius and Diomande on the flanks in an effort to stem the problems, before taking the Brazilian off directly when matters became more difficult.

The comparison with Kylian Mbappé underlines the gap between the two situations in this assessment: the Frenchman continues to provide an attacking contribution that Vinícius is currently unable to match. Real Madrid has given Vinícius an influence that appears out of proportion to his performances, and the extension of his contract during the summer is presented as evidence of that standing. This could also give Mourinho greater tactical freedom, without obliging him to field the number 7 in every circumstance.

Vinícius’ difficult personal circumstances away from the pitch could also affect his level. Mourinho’s choice, however, remains a balance between the difficulty of reducing an important player’s minutes and the need to address the limitations in his contribution.