The start of the season hasn't been great for Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr., and he doesn't seem to be in top form, which has begun to worry his followers.

Questions about what could be happening with the Brazilian increased after his participation in the Brazil vs. India match, in which he played only 45 minutes.

During his first-half performance, Vini Jr. made repeated mistakes, showing a lower level than in past seasons.

His clearest mistake came in the 18th minute, when Brazil had a clear scoring chance: the ball fell to Vinicius in front of the goal for a volley, but he ended up "skying" it.

In the end, the play was ruled offside, but despite that, the Real Madrid player's lack of technique was questioned. It wasn't the only time he failed; in some one-on-one situations, he made errors in his decisions and finishes.

In addition, he could not complete several passes that would have been dangerous if they had reached his teammates. This hasn't only happened in this match; several fans have pointed out Vini's poor form in other matches so far this season.

Despite all of this, Brazil secured a 4-0 victory over India in another preparation match for Ancelotti's team.

This situation has gained new relevance after a recent report from Spanish outlet Defensa Central. According to the site, Jose Mourinho plans to make an important decision about Vinicius after the international break. The Brazilian is expected to start as a substitute against Villarreal, although the coach does not expect that to continue in the following matches.

The measure does not represent a definitive loss of confidence or the beginning of a permanent substitute role. The coach believes his player needs a reaction, but he is also convinced he will only regain his best form by accumulating minutes and feeling important within the team.

For that reason, unless something changes during the upcoming training sessions, he will most likely be a substitute against Villarreal. Afterward, he should return to having a prominent role against Roma, Sevilla, and Leipzig, three tests that will serve to check his evolution before the Clasico against Barcelona.

Mourinho understands this decision as a sporting measure. Vinicius isn't delivering the expected performance, and the presence of other forwards lets the coach make changes without sacrificing offensive threat.

The Brazilian has lost continuity in his dribbling, intervenes less, and is also not easily finding the path to goal. His production is far from what he showed during his best seasons at Real Madrid, but the coaching staff understands that keeping him out for several matches could increase his doubts.

The plan is to give him an initial rest against Villarreal, then return him to a prominent role in the following matches. Mourinho will seek to provoke a reaction without breaking the confidence of a player he still considers fundamental to competing for the major titles. We will see whether this becomes something definitive or temporary.