Vinicius Jr relishing life under Mourinho despite Real Madrid contract uncertainty
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr says he is enjoying life under new manager Jose Mourinho as the Brazilian begins pre-season preparations, even as uncertainty over his long-term future at the club continues.
The 26-year-old, who has emerged as one of Real Madrid’s most influential players in recent seasons, struck a positive note after his second day of training under Mourinho despite ongoing speculation linking him with a move to Premier League champions Arsenal.
“It has gone very well, getting to know the new coach and the new players, and training very hard,” Vinicius told Real Madrid TV.
“Mourinho wants me to be as I have always been: happy, cheerful and playing my football.”
While Vinicius appeared relaxed on the training ground, negotiations over a new contract remain unresolved. The Brazil international has entered the final year of his current deal, with reports in Spain and England suggesting talks between the player and the club are continuing.
Arsenal are reportedly monitoring the situation, although Real Madrid are keen to retain one of the club’s biggest stars rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next year.
Since joining Los Blancos, Vinicius has established himself as one of Europe’s premier forwards, scoring 128 goals and providing 100 assists across all competitions.
The winger heads into the new season after a demanding summer with Brazil at the FIFA World Cup, where the five-time champions suffered a surprise last-16 exit. Vinicius finished as Brazil’s leading scorer in the tournament with four goals.
Despite the disappointment on the international stage, the Brazilian is fully focused on preparing for the campaign ahead under Mourinho.
“We have to prepare physically so that during the season we have fewer injuries and can count on everyone,” Vinicius said.
“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.”
With Mourinho beginning a new chapter at the Santiago Bernabeu, Vinicius is expected to remain central to the Portuguese manager’s plans, even as questions over his contract continue to dominate the headlines.
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