Vinicius Junior is going through a difficult period at Real Madrid this season, with his numbers and playing time declining under manager Jose Mourinho.
The latest development came during the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid, when Mourinho substituted the Brazilian winger early in the second half.
Vinicius was taken off at the Metropolitano in the 54th minute, while Kylian Mbappe remained on the pitch until the final whistle as Real Madrid suffered defeat.
Vinicius Continues to Lose Playing Time
Vinicius has been substituted in each of Real Madrid's last four matches, highlighting the recent decline in his playing time.
He was taken off against Inter in the 87th minute, before being substituted in the 89th minute against Rayo Vallecano.
Against Elche, Vinicius left the pitch in the 68th minute, while his shortest appearance came against Atletico Madrid, when he was replaced after just 54 minutes.
The sequence represents a noticeable change in his involvement compared with the early stages of the season.
Mbappe Leads in Playing Time
Kylian Mbappe has meanwhile received more playing time, completing seven full matches this season compared with three full matches for Vinicius.
According to the figures provided, Mbappe has played 720 minutes, while Vinicius has featured for 652 minutes.
At the beginning of the season, Mourinho had sought to keep the playing time of Vinicius and Mbappe relatively close in order to maintain balance between the two attacking stars and limit comparisons between them.
The gap has become more noticeable in recent matches.
Vinicius' Attacking Numbers Raise Questions
Vinicius has scored one goal and provided three assists this season, in addition to earning a penalty for his team.
Mbappe, meanwhile, has made a strong start in front of goal, scoring eight goals in eight matches.
Vinicius currently ranks fifth among Real Madrid's leading scorers this season, behind Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler. Youngster Ispe has also scored more goals despite playing only 26 minutes across five appearances.
A New Challenge for Vinicius Junior
The latest figures leave Vinicius with the challenge of regaining his form and securing his place in Real Madrid's starting lineup.
With strong competition within the attack and Mourinho increasingly relying on Mbappe, the Brazilian forward will look to restore his attacking influence and earn more playing time in the coming matches.
Why was Vinicius substituted against Atletico Madrid?
Jose Mourinho replaced Vinicius in the 54th minute of the Madrid derby, while Kylian Mbappe played until the end.
How many minutes has Vinicius played this season?
Vinicius has played 652 minutes according to the figures provided in the report.
How many goals has Vinicius scored this season?
Vinicius has scored one goal and provided three assists.
How many goals has Mbappe scored this season?
Kylian Mbappe has scored eight goals in eight matches according to the figures provided.
