Mourinho has already changed one major part of Vinicius’ game at Real Madrid

Mourinho has already changed one major part of Vinicius’ game at Real Madrid Jose Mourinho appears to be getting a different version of Vinicius Jr. out of him at Real Madrid, with the Brazilian’s defensive contribution becoming increasingly noticeable even while his attacking form remains below his best. Repairing the relationship between the manager and Vinicius was one of Mourinho’s early priorities after taking charge.  Their relationship had been badly strained by Real Madrid’s three meetings with Benfica last season, particularly the fallout from the Gianluca Prestianni affair. Mourinho worked to change that dynamic after the World Cup and played an important role in Vinicius deciding to renew his Real Madrid contract.  Now, the manager is gradually demanding more from the Brazilian in areas beyond goals and dribbles. Vinicius shows a different side against Inter The performance against Inter Milan in the Champions League opener offered the clearest evidence yet.  Vinicius was far from his most dangerous going forward, creating no clear-cut chances, failing to register a shot on target and completing only two successful dribbles. Mourinho is standing in support of Vinicius Jr. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images) However, his work without the ball told a completely different story. The Brazilian recovered possession nine times against Inter, more than twice as many as the next-best Real Madrid player , Jude Bellingham, who recorded four recoveries.  It was a striking contribution from a player who has frequently faced criticism over his defensive commitment. Vinicius repeatedly dropped deeper to support his teammates when Real Madrid were defending, helping the side deal with Inter’s pressure and providing an intensity that has not always been associated with his game. Mourinho changing Vinicius’s mentality Those nine recoveries were also significant historically, as no Real Madrid forward had managed more in a match since Gonzalo Higuaín recorded 12 in 2008. The numbers suggest Mourinho is already influencing one particular aspect of Vinicius’ game. Vinicius played his part in defence against Inter Milan. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) The Brazilian may not yet be back to the level where he consistently beats defenders and finishes chances, but his willingness to contribute defensively is becoming much harder to overlook. Lastly, there has also been a noticeable change in his temperament.  Vinicius appears more measured than the fiery player who has often found himself at the centre of confrontations, something Mourinho has encouraged since the beginning of the campaign. Bernabeu reaction remains a concern Against Inter, Vinicius again struggled to find his attacking rhythm and was eventually replaced late in the match. He left the pitch exhausted, but the familiar reaction from the Bernabéu followed. Some supporters booed the Brazilian as he departed, although the criticism became less intense when Mourinho encouraged the crowd to applaud him. That moment summed up Vinicius’ current situation at Madrid. His attacking numbers still need to improve, but Mourinho appears to be building a more complete and disciplined player in the meantime.