Jose Mourinho speaks out on Vinicius Jr.‘s whistles as he criticizes Real Madrid fans
Jose Mourinho has defended Vinicius Junior after the Real Madrid forward was jeered by supporters following Tuesday night’s Champions League victory over Inter Milan.
Madrid secured a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabeu despite being far from their best, with Kylian Mbappe and Federico Valverde finding the net before Carlos Augusto pulled one back for Inter.
Mourinho had made it clear before kick-off that he would take an unconvincing win over a strong performance that ended in defeat. After the game, he described the contest as “crazy” while admitting his side had struggled in midfield.
Mourinho explains Madrid’s problems against Inter with strong message for Vini
Speaking to Movistar, Mourinho said: “I prefer to say it was a crazy match. We are often criticised when the match is boring, and today it was crazy, and it could have ended 7-6 without any problem.”
He then acknowledged a weakness in his team, adding: “Our midfield was weak, they made changes very early, and I did not have many options in midfield.”
Despite those problems, Mourinho felt his players deserved credit for the way they responded, particularly when Inter continued creating chances.
Thibaut Courtois was also crucial, but Mourinho refused to suggest the goalkeeper was solely responsible for the victory. “Courtois made many saves, but how many goals did we waste on the counter-attacks? It was a wonderful match,” he said.
The Portuguese manager was also keen to defend Valverde’s contribution after his goal, arguing that Madrid’s pressing work had played a part in forcing the errors that led to their goals.
His strongest message, however, was reserved for Vinicius.
Mourinho acknowledged that the Brazilian is not yet back to his best, but praised his effort and insisted that should be recognised by Madrid supporters.
“He has not yet reached his full readiness, and he is not yet the Vinicius we know, but he works a lot, and whoever works and gives everything he has deserves respect,” Mourinho said.
Vinicius will now look to respond on the pitch as Real Madrid turn their attention back to LaLiga, with Rayo Vallecano next on the schedule.
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