‘I wouldn’t be here’: Mourinho’s blunt verdict on Vinicius’s Real Madrid ordeal

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho expressed regret on Monday that he, if placed in the shoes of winger Vinicius Junior, would have left the club this summer. Vinicius, 26, was sent off during Madrid's victory against Villarreal last weekend for pulling hair and is serving a four-match ban, which will keep him out of the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona on October 25.

The Brazilian has faced regular targeting from opposition fans and endured racial abuse since joining Madrid in 2018. Mourinho praised Vinicius as a "fantastic boy" and a "spectacular kid" who remains positive despite the challenges. However, the coach suggested that if he were in Vinicius' position, he would have sought a transfer to a league or country where players are respected.

Vinicius recently signed a new contract with Madrid until 2032, and Mourinho emphasized that the player remains committed to the club and the city. Despite Vinicius' recent struggles to return to his best form, Mourinho remains optimistic about the player's longevity at the club. Madrid, currently fourth in La Liga with six points behind league leaders Barcelona, will face Sevilla in their next match, with the aim of avoiding further ground in the title race.