Real Madrid Stands Defiant Behind Vinicius Junior Amid Growing Fan Fury
Real Madrid maintain unwavering support for Vinicius Junior despite the player receiving a lukewarm response from supporters at the Bernabéu on Saturday night, according to Spanish media reports.
As Xabi Alonso substituted the Brazilian forward in the 83rd minute during Los Blancos' 2–0 triumph against Sevilla, the home supporters expressed their displeasure with jeers following another display where the No. 7 couldn't break his scoring drought.
Vinicius Jr's barren run without a goal has now extended to 14 matches over approximately three months. The winger's most recent strike in the famous white jersey came on Oct. 4, when he netted twice to help Real Madrid claim victory against Villarreal.
Following that memorable evening at the Bernabéu, Vinicius Jr has struggled to make an impact on the field while creating headlines off it. A public dispute with Alonso, contract negotiations reaching an impasse, and mysterious social media activity during the team's poor run have turned the previously beloved player into a target for criticism.
However, Mundo Deportivo indicates that Vinicius Jr retains the complete trust of Real Madrid. Officials at Valdebebas will "maintain their support" for the Brazil star despite increasing criticism from the club's devoted supporters.
Nevertheless, Vinicius Jr's dip in performance and diminishing fan approval remains a "worry." The Spanish powerhouse hopes this issue will be resolved "at the earliest opportunity."
Rodrygo Eclipses Vinicius Jr to End 2025
Adding to Vinicius Jr's difficulties is Rodrygo's impressive comeback. The 24-year-old, who was largely relegated to the substitutes' bench during the opening months of the 2025–26 season, has contributed two goals and one assist across his previous three starting appearances.
While these statistics may appear modest, Rodrygo's strikes against Manchester City and Alavés leave him just three goals behind Vinicius Jr's total output this campaign. The 2024 Ballon d'Or second-place finisher has managed only five goals despite featuring from the start in 21 matches compared to Rodrygo's seven.
The scoring struggles from Vinicius Jr have placed additional burden on Kylian Mbappé to carry Los Blancos to success. With Rodrygo now regaining his scoring touch, the French star finally has reliable support in attack.
The holiday break arrives at an unfortunate moment for Rodrygo, yet the two-week hiatus might provide the perfect opportunity for his Brazilian teammate to regroup and prepare for the campaign's second phase. Real Madrid will face significant challenges in pursuing La Liga or Champions League glory without the former Flamengo talent performing at his peak level.