Vinicius Jr's former Real Madrid manager, and current head coach of the Brazil national team, Carlo Ancelotti, has passionately defended his player on Tuesday afternoon.
It is safe to say that it has been a tough start to the season for Real Madrid superstar forward, Vinicius Jr.
Heading into the season, there was a lot of optimism and goodwill towards the Brazilian international, having rejected a move to Premier League side Arsenal in the summer, instead signing a six year deal at the Bernabeu in order to ensure the club were not at risk of losing his services for free next summer.
However, it has been a disappointing start to life with this bumper new deal. So far this season, Vinicius has scored just one goal in eight games (Seven in La Liga, one in the UEFA Champions League), whilst missing five big chances in that time. He was hooked in the derby defeat to Atletico Madrid last time out after yet another below par display at the Metropolitano.
Sometimes, in these scenarios, you need an arm round the shoulder, some support. Well, the 26-year old has been given exactly that by his former Real Madrid boss and current Brazil national team manager, Carlo Ancelotti.
Speaking (via MadridXtra) after Brazil’s friendly win down under against Australia - where Vinicius scored from the penalty spot - the Italian said: “I know Vini very well. He’s an important player for Brazil, he has been an important player in my football history and he will continue to be in the future.
Is he in his best moment? No. But, even when Vini isn’t it in his best moment, he can still make the difference like he did today. Personally, I will be very patient, because he deserves this patience.”
Some very nice words from a manager who has seen absolutely everything in football. He knows what he is talking about. It is well known that Vinicius made his real breakout at Real Madrid when Ancelotti took over in the summer of 2021. It is clear that he will benefit from continuing to work together with the national team.
As touched on above, he did find the net against Australia earlier on today. Sure, it may have been a penalty, but there are countless examples in football where a player low on confidence has scored a penalty, and from there their form has taken off. So let's see if that happens in this instance.
There is one more game for Brazil and Vinicius during this extended international break, as they take on India in South Asia on Saturday at 16:00 CEST. We will provide you with all the updates as always.
