Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has strongly criticized what he described as repeated bullying directed at Brazilian star Vinicius Junior, insisting that the player has increasingly become a target of incidents involving opponents and supporters during matches. ⚽
Mourinho’s comments came after Real Madrid opened their La Liga campaign with a 2-1 victory over Espanyol, marking a winning start to the Portuguese coach’s return to the club.
🔥 Mourinho Defends Vinicius
An early incident caused frustration among Real Madrid players after Alex Calatrava pulled Vinicius from behind and brought him to the ground before appearing to grab the Brazilian again while he was on the pitch.
Real Madrid players called for a red card, but the referee decided not to take action against the Espanyol player at that moment.
The match continued with Jude Bellingham giving Real Madrid the lead before Espanyol equalized through Calatrava. Substitute Carlos Espe then scored the winning goal for Real Madrid in the 90th minute.
🗣️ Mourinho: What Happens to Vinicius Is Excessive
Mourinho said the way some opponents treat Vinicius has become a recurring pattern, stressing that the player is not perfect but arguing that the treatment he receives has gone too far.
The Portuguese coach explained that the incidents involving Vinicius sometimes begin during the opening minutes of matches and continue from one opponent to another.
Mourinho also emphasized that Vinicius needs to show considerable self-control, particularly when facing provocation from opponents or supporters.
⭐ Mourinho Advises Vinicius to Stay Calm
The Real Madrid coach urged his Brazilian star to remain composed even during moments of success, including paying attention to the way he celebrates goals so that his actions do not create additional controversy.
Mourinho believes that dealing with such situations requires continuous preparation and guidance, particularly because Vinicius has become one of Real Madrid’s biggest stars and one of the players most exposed to pressure and provocation during matches.
He also pointed to the wider discussion surrounding bullying in society, arguing that Vinicius continues to face situations that can be described as bullying, both from opponents on the pitch and from sections of the crowd.
🔄 An Old Controversy Returns
Mourinho’s comments have also revived debate surrounding a previous incident involving Vinicius during the Portuguese coach’s time at Benfica.
During a Champions League meeting with Real Madrid, Vinicius was subjected to discriminatory abuse from Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni. UEFA later suspended the player for several matches over the incident.
Mourinho was heavily criticized at the time for comments surrounding the incident, after defending the Benfica player and suggesting that some of Vinicius’ celebrations could influence the reactions of supporters.
He also referred to Benfica’s history, pointing out that club legend Eusebio, one of the most important players in the Portuguese club’s history, was Black.
🏆 Mourinho Wants to Protect His Star
Mourinho’s latest comments demonstrate his desire to protect Vinicius and provide him with the necessary support to deal with the pressure surrounding him during matches.
At the same time, the Portuguese coach understands that the player must control his reactions and avoid allowing provocation to affect his performance or concentration.
With the new season underway, Vinicius faces a major challenge to maintain his level and avoid unnecessary confrontations, particularly as Real Madrid are relying heavily on him in their pursuit of domestic and European trophies. 🔥🏆
Do you believe Vinicius needs greater protection from referees, or should the player focus on the game and avoid provocation? Share your opinion. 👇⚽
