Mourinho backs Real Madrid megastar to return to his best soon: ‘Only a matter of time’

Mourinho backs Real Madrid megastar to return to his best soon: ‘Only a matter of time’ Speaking to TNT Sports Brazil ahead of Real Madrid’s game against AS Roma in the UEFA Champions League, manager Jose Mourinho has backed Vinicius Jr. to turn things around after struggling for form. The 26-year-old Brazilian international signed a new contract with Los Blancos in the summer, snubbing interest from Arsenal. However, his performances since then have been far from the level expected, with the winger failing to reach the heights he had set in the past. Things only got worse for him this past weekend as he was benched for the game against Villarreal and went on to receive a red card after coming on in the second half. Mourinho continues to back Vinicius Despite the ongoing struggles with form and confidence, Vinicius continues to enjoy the full faith of his manager, Mourinho. Indeed, during his brief chat with TNT Brazil, the Portuguese tactician made it clear that he expects the superstar winger to return to his best version soon. Struggling. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) “Vinicius will return to his best. It’s only a matter of time,” said Mourinho. Further discussing the difficult situation that the Brazilian winger was going through and how he was trying to help the player, Mourinho added: “After the derby against Atletico Madrid, I decided to take a different approach with Vini. I wanted to protect him a little and bring him on when the game called for a player like Vini.” Continuing, he explained: “I think it worked. The crowd, who at times showed their unhappiness, immediately supported him as soon as he started warming up. I believe that was a crucial turning point for him. He came on and played very well.” “The goal and the red card were a shame, but it seemed like something clicked for him, reigniting that joy and reminding him of the kind of player he really is.” Mourinho fully supports Vinicius. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images) Vinicius’ season so far So far in 2026/27, Vinicius has played a total of 672 minutes across nine games in all competitions for Real Madrid. However, his return has been quite subpar, with the 26-year-old winger managing only one goal and three assists so far. While he is expected to start tonight against AS Roma, Vinicius will be suspended for at least two games in La Liga after his red card against Villarreal. As such, he will end up missing the Clasico against FC Barcelona later this month .