Mourinho refuses to panic over megastar’s form and delivers private message of support – report | OneFootball

Vinicius Jr. did not have the ideal start to the new La Liga season, but Jose Mourinho is in no mood to panic.

The Brazilian endured a difficult evening during Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Espanyol, struggling to find his usual influence and becoming increasingly involved in confrontations with opposition players. 

A yellow card followed, while the noise around his performance grew as the match went on.

Yet, according to MARCA, Mourinho’s view of the situation is very different from the reaction outside the club.

The Real Madrid manager still sees Vinicius as one of the central figures in his project and believes the Brazilian will return to his best level with time, fitness and confidence. 

More importantly, Mourinho has made sure the player knows exactly where he stands.

After publicly defending him, the Portuguese coach also spoke to Vinicius privately with a clear message that he has his manager’s support.

Mourinho will not change his view on Vinicius

Mourinho is not worried about Vinicius’ form at the moment. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Vinicius’ performance against Espanyol was not the standard he expects from himself.

He spent too much time getting involved in confrontations, allowing the physical and emotional side of the match to take him away from his football. 

That is a pattern Mourinho wants to help him control, particularly because Vinicius can become an even more decisive player when his focus remains entirely on the game.

As put by the outlet, just one disappointing performance has not changed Mourinho’s thinking. 

Simply put, the season has only just started, and the Brazilian is still working towards his sharpest physical condition. 

Mourinho believes his performances will improve naturally as he plays more minutes, develops a stronger understanding with his teammates and settles into the manager’s demands.

Vinicius struggled to make an impact against Espanyol. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

That is why this situation should not be interpreted as a warning over Vinicius’ place in the side.

Quite the opposite.

Mourinho considers him a fundamental part of the team and has no intention of allowing one difficult night to create uncertainty around his importance.

Vinicius received constant boos, but Mourinho stepped in

The Espanyol match was difficult for Vinicius for more than just footballing reasons.

The Brazilian was subjected to whistles, boos and insults throughout the game, creating another hostile environment.

For what it is worth, Mourinho understood the situation.

Hence, rather than leaving Vinicius to deal with the criticism alone, the manager chose to defend him publicly after the final whistle, followed by a private conversation to give him confidence.