Vinicius Junior in turmoil, again. While the Brazilian is in sparkling form at the start of the season with Real Madrid (5 goals and 4 assists in 8 La Liga games), a former teammate has just lifted the veil on what was happening behind the scenes during the previous difficult season. Revelations that question the player's ability to handle media pressure and advice from his peers.
Lucas Vazquez swings at Vinicius
It was former Madrid defender Lucas Vazquez, who left this summer after 18 years at the club, who released the painful words in an interview with COPE:
“We would tell him not to let it affect him, but he didn't always listen. » The Spaniard is referring to Vinicius' difficulties in dealing with constant criticism from the Spanish media and hostility from opposing supporters during travels.
Vazquez continues frankly: “It was difficult on away match days because you see your teammate and friend not having a good time. You want him to be at his best, and he can't be in the spotlight for things that aren't football related. » These words reveal the internal tensions and the attempts of the locker room to protect the Brazilian from himself.
Former Real Madrid criticizes Vinicius: 'He didn't listen to our advice'
A player who struggles to manage extra-sporting
This revelation comes as Vinicius continues to fuel off-field controversies. Recently, he had to publicly apologize to Brazilian influencer Virginia Fonseca after rumors surfaced about messages he sent to other women. Incidents which confirm Vazquez's words about his difficulty remaining focused solely on football.
At 25, Vinicius remains an exceptional talent on the pitch, as evidenced by his successful association with Mbappé this season. But his inability to listen to the advice of his elders could cost him dearly in his quest for the Ballon d'Or and in his contractual negotiations with Real, currently in an impasse.
