Vinicius Junior vows to improve finishing amid Real Madrid forward rivalry
Vinicius Junior has admitted that his finishing must improve after a subdued opening to the campaign, with Real Madrid’s increasingly competitive forward line placing greater scrutiny on the Brazilian’s place in the side.
The winger has scored once across 598 minutes so far, while supplying three assists. Those figures contrast sharply with Kylian Mbappe’s start: the French forward has struck eight times in his opening seven appearances and has established himself as a near-automatic selection.
Pressure grows in Madrid’s attack
- Mbappe’s arrival reshaped the balance of Real Madrid’s front line, creating a tighter contest for attacking minutes alongside Vinicius.
- Jose Mourinho initially sought to distribute game time evenly between his leading forwards, but Mbappe’s scoring return has moved him firmly to the forefront of the manager’s plans.
- Vinicius was replaced in the 68th minute of the match against Elche, his third successive appearance ending before full time.
- Yan Diomande then featured from the left during the latter stages at the Martinez Valero, operating in the role most closely associated with Vinicius.
- The young player created several of Madrid’s more threatening moments, underlining the options available when Vinicius is rested or has not found his usual attacking impact.
Vinicius addresses his form
Vinicius responded to his recent run by posting a message on Instagram in which he accepted that he had missed too many chances and insisted his goals would return.
His contribution beyond scoring remains relevant, particularly with three assists already registered, but the Brazilian is being measured against the high standards he has set during Madrid’s recent successes. Mbappe’s fast start has made the competition more immediate, leaving fewer guaranteed places in the starting XI.
Mourinho explains Elche substitution
Mourinho rejected the idea that Vinicius’s early withdrawal at Elche represented a punishment or a reduction in status. The Madrid coach said the player had worked hard within the team’s defensive structure and was taken off because of fatigue.
Vinicius showed no visible objection when he left the pitch. Even so, Diomande’s effective left-wing spell demonstrated that Madrid now have credible alternatives in a position that has long belonged to the Brazilian.
