LaLiga
Mourinho wants to see 'best version' of Vinicius
Jose Mourinho says the prime version of Vinicius Junior is the one who is scoring goals, but the Real Madrid boss is satisfied with the Brazil star's form.… Show More
Jose Mourinho says the prime version of Vinicius Junior is the one who is scoring goals, but the Real Madrid boss is satisfied with the Brazil star's form.
Vinicius was linked with a move away from Madrid this summer, with Arsenal interested in signing the winger.
However, he instead signed a new deal to remain with Los Blancos.
The Brazilian is yet to hit top form in 2026-2027, scoring just one goal in his six appearances, though he has provided a team-leading three assists.
"The best version of him is scoring goals," Mourinho said ahead of Madrid's midweek LaLiga clash with Elche.
"Obviously, assisting is important; working for the team is very important. Commitment, solidarity, and teamwork are very important.
"The day-to-day work is also very important, and he does it very well, but there's another Vinicius.
"There's the Vinicius who arrived in Lisbon last season, and in close matches, especially in the two knockout rounds, he gets one chance, scores a goal, and that's it. He's lacking that top-level performance lately, but I'm happy with him."
Competing for a place on the flanks at Madrid is Yan Diomande, who joined Madrid for big money from RB Leipzig on the back of a hugely successful season in the Bundesliga, as well as impressive performances at the World Cup.
The youngster is yet to score or assist for Los Blancos, but Mourinho has no doubt Diomande will come good.
"He's got everything he needs. If instead of being at Real Madrid with this squad, he were at a team with fewer high-potential players, he'd surely be a starter for the full 90 minutes of every match," Mourinho said of Diomande, who has started just one game so far this season.
"I say this about Diomande and all the others. The squad is strong and has many options. The coach doesn't just focus on ten players and forget about the others.
"Over the course of the season, the engine loses steam, as do motivation and internal competition.
"We're talking about Diomande, but we could also talk about Vinicius, Arda, Brahim [Diaz], and in January, Rodrygo. Being an undisputed starter, as you all seem to like that word, is difficult."
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