Real Madrid have no idea why 26-year-old star is struggling so badly this season

Real Madrid have no idea why 26-year-old star is struggling so badly this season Real Madrid are struggling to understand what has happened to Vinicius Jr. According to Mundo Deportivo , there is growing concern within the club because the Brazilian’s performances have fallen well below the level expected of him, yet those at the top are struggling to identify a clear reason for the decline. That uncertainty is making the situation particularly uncomfortable, as Vinicius renewed his contract until 2032 during the summer.  Just months later, that optimism has been replaced by questions over why the winger cannot reproduce the level that made him so important to Real Madrid. Real Madrid cannot find an explanation For what it is worth, the problem is not a lack of opportunities, as Mourinho has trusted Vinicius from the beginning, selecting him in every match despite the Brazilian struggling to produce his best football.  The continued backing from the manager, however, has not yet triggered the response Madrid were hoping for, leaving the club searching for answers. Vinicius is struggling to get back to his usual best. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images) Now, the concerns have reached the highest levels of the organisation, where there is genuine uncertainty over what is preventing Vinicius from performing at his usual standard. The situation is becoming harder to ignore at the Santiago Bernabeu, as fans have repeatedly expressed their frustration, with whistles aimed at the Brazilian during matches.  More significantly, even some of those who have consistently defended Vinicius are now questioning whether he should remain an automatic starter . Yet the situation within the dressing room is not understood to be the same. Vinicius continues to have the support of his teammates, despite some players having believed during the summer that he could leave for Arsenal . Mourinho now has to decide what comes next The lack of an obvious explanation leaves Mourinho with a difficult decision ahead of Real Madrid’s La Liga clash against Villarreal on October 10. Mourinho has a big decision to make. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) The manager has so far shown complete faith in Vinicius, but continued struggles could force him to consider a different approach. As such, Yan Diomande has emerged as the obvious alternative.  The Ivorian had initially raised questions after his first appearances, but his performances have subsequently improved to the point where he is now one of the players most widely supported by the fans to start on the left. Still, the potential change would be a consequence of the larger problem rather than the problem itself. Real Madrid first need to understand why Vinicius is struggling. Until they find that answer, deciding whether to keep starting him or temporarily remove him from the XI only treats the symptom.