Former Real Madrid star Julio Baptista defends Vinicius: ‘Teammates and supporters should rally around him’ 

Former Real Madrid star Julio Baptista defends Vinicius: ‘Teammates and supporters should rally around him’  Former Real Madrid star Julio Baptista has come to the defence of Vinicius Jr. ahead of the Champions League meeting between the Spanish giants and AS Roma.  The former Brazil star, who played for both clubs during his career, spoke on Radio MARCA , where he called for greater understanding towards his compatriot, who is going through a difficult phase in his career . Baptista calls for greater support for Vinicius Baptista insisted fans need to show greater support to a player who, in his view, has repeatedly demonstrated his commitment to Real Madrid. “I think Vinicius has given a great deal to Madrid. He has earned the affection of the fans through his own merits and, if he is not doing well at a particular moment, both his teammates and the supporters should rally around him,” he said. “They should help him return to his best level so that he can help Real Madrid achieve what the club and its fans want most, which is to keep winning trophies.” The Brazilian was even more emphatic when discussing the winger’s importance to the club’s future.  “It is easier to keep winning trophies with Vinicius than without him,” he said.  Going through a tough phase. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Baptista reminds fans that footballers are human Baptista also highlighted the human side of football and the pressure faced by players at a club such as Real Madrid. The former striker believes people sometimes forget that footballers are human beings who can suffer and experience difficult moments, just like anyone else.  “Real Madrid is a club where players are expected to deliver a great deal, and everyone wants them to give everything at all times,” he explained. “But sometimes people do not understand that players have feelings, they cry and they feel pain. It seems as though they think footballers are extraterrestrials.” Having experienced the demands of wearing the white shirt himself, Baptista stressed that support can be crucial in helping a player rediscover his best form. His message to Vinicius is straightforward: confidence, backing and patience are needed to help him deliver his full potential for the team again.  On AS Roma vs Real Madrid Baptista also discussed the Champions League meeting between Roma and Real Madrid, two clubs that feature prominently in his career. “I have a great deal of affection for the clubs I have played for. It is true that Real Madrid occupy a very special place in my life,” he admitted.  Mourinho and Real Madrid face AS Roma tonight. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images) Howerver, Baptista warned that Real Madrid face a difficult challenge at the Stadio Olimpico, where Roma’s supporters are known for creating an intense atmosphere throughout a match.  “Roma’s fans are very passionate and support the team throughout the entire match. Playing there is not easy for Real Madrid,” he said.  Nevertheless, he expects the Spanish side to meet the standards associated with the club in Europe’s premier competition.  “Real Madrid are the team everyone wants to beat, and we hope they perform at the level expected of them in the Champions League and rise to the challenge against Roma,” he added.  The former footballer also discussed the pressure surrounding managers at elite clubs, particularly Mourinho. In his view, coaching Real Madrid requires qualities that extend well beyond tactical knowledge.  “Being Real Madrid’s coach requires a special skill, particularly when it comes to dealing with the press and everything surrounding the club. It is not easy,” Baptista noted.