Jose Mourinho Supports Vinicius Junior After Real Madrid Fans Boo Forward During Inter Win

Jose Mourinho Backs Vinicius Junior Amid Fan Criticism

Jose Mourinho, manager of Real Madrid, defended Vinicius Junior after the Brazilian winger was booed by supporters at the Bernabeu during a tight 2-1 Champions League victory over Serie A champions Inter.

Match Overview and Fan Reaction

The match saw goals from Kylian Mbappe and Federico Valverde, securing all three points for Real Madrid in their Champions League group stage opener. Despite the win, the atmosphere soured late when Vinicius was substituted in the 87th minute and met with whistles from home fans frustrated by his quiet performance against a stubborn Italian defense.

Mourinho Comments on Vinicius’ Form

Speaking to the media post-match, Mourinho admitted that Vinicius is currently not playing at his usual level but praised his defensive work ethic and effort despite fatigue.

"He isn’t at his best, and he knows it," Mourinho said. "But he’s working hard to be the Vinicius who decides games. Without being at his best, he’s working harder than ever. When he couldn’t drop back and defend, it was because of fatigue. I have to value that a lot. I have a lot of respect for this Vinicius. The time will come when he decides games and wins us games."

Mourinho also pointed out the tactical challenges Vinicius faced against Inter’s wing-back system, emphasizing his ongoing support.

"If he works, he’ll always have my support. He worked very hard for the team. Playing against a side with three at the back and wing-backs is tough for wingers. With the one-on-ones he had on the left wing, if Vini were at his best, he’d kill the game. That’s what we expect from him. But he gave everything."

Challenges Ahead for Vinicius and Real Madrid

This incident adds to a tough spell for Vinicius. After a difficult 2025-26 season filled with criticism from Madrid fans, he renewed his commitment to the club this summer. Yet, his start to the new campaign has been underwhelming by his high standards, scoring just one goal and providing two assists in five appearances.

The match also revealed deeper issues for Mourinho’s squad. Suspensions to Bernardo Silva, Arda Guler, and Eduardo Camavinga forced Mourinho to play Trent Alexander-Arnold out of position in central midfield. Mourinho recognized the Englishman’s effort but noted the physical differences required for the role.

"It’s hard for Trent. I appreciate the effort he made, but his characteristics differ between full-back and central midfield physically. He lost the ball a few times because playing with the whole field in front of you versus half the field behind you is completely different. He’s done it before with Liverpool and England, but it’s different here. He didn’t have more to give."

Upcoming Matches and Vinicius’ Path to Redemption

Real Madrid will host Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Saturday, offering Vinicius a chance to win back the demanding home crowd’s support. Afterward, a break for international fixtures will follow before Madrid travel to face Serie A side Roma, where Mourinho will reunite with another former club as Los Blancos aim to build on their Champions League success.

• La Liga: Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano, 12 Sept 2026, 21:00
• Serie A: Udinese vs Inter, 14 Sept 2026, 20:45