Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr is adjusting well to life under new manager Jose Mourinho, expressing positivity despite ongoing contract negotiations and transfer speculation.
The 26-year-old Brazilian, a key figure in Real Madrid’s attack, spoke about his experience during the early days of pre-season training with Mourinho. He highlighted the coach’s desire for him to maintain his natural joy and style of play.
Vinicius Jr said:
- "It has gone very well, getting to know the new coach and the new players, and training very hard."
- "Mourinho wants me to be as I have always been: happy, cheerful and playing my football."
Behind this upbeat front, however, lies a complex situation. Vinicius Jr is in the final year of his contract with Real Madrid, and talks between the club and the player are ongoing. Meanwhile, Premier League champions Arsenal have shown interest in securing his signature.
Having scored 128 goals and provided 100 assists for Real Madrid, the club is keen to avoid losing one of its top talents on a free transfer next year.
Following a demanding summer representing Brazil at the World Cup, where he was the nation’s top scorer with four goals despite an early exit, Vinicius Jr is now focused on preparing for the upcoming season.
He emphasized the importance of physical readiness to minimize injuries during the campaign:
- "We have to prepare physically so that during the season we have fewer injuries and can count on everyone."
- "It was a good training session and we all left very tired, but now it's time to rest for tomorrow. That's how pre-season is and we have to be ready."
