The former Real Madrid and Roma forward made his case during an appearance on Radio MARCA's Otra Ronda, arguing that the winger has earned the affection of supporters through his contribution to the club and deserves their backing when performances fall below his usual level.
“Vinícius has given a great deal to Madrid. He has earned the supporters' affection through his own merits and, if he is not playing well at a particular moment, his team-mates and the fans should support him so that he can return to his best and help Madrid achieve what the supporters want most, which is to keep winning titles.”
Baptista was particularly emphatic about the Brazilian's long-term importance to the team.
“It is easier to keep winning titles with Vinícius than without him.”
The comments come as Vinícius faces scrutiny following his recent performances and dismissal against Villarreal. Baptista believes the reaction to players at elite clubs can overlook the personal pressures that accompany their position.
“Madrid is a club where a great deal is demanded of a player, and everyone wants him to give everything at all times. But sometimes people do not understand that footballers are human beings who feel things, cry and experience pain. It seems they think they are extraterrestrials.”
Having experienced the expectations surrounding the Bernabéu himself, Baptista argued that encouragement can help a player recover confidence and rediscover his best form. His message is not that Vinícius should be exempt from criticism, but that his previous contribution and future potential should remain part of the discussion.
Baptista also reflected on the challenge of managing a club of Madrid's stature. He believes the job requires more than tactical knowledge, particularly when dealing with intense media scrutiny and expectations from supporters.
“Being Madrid's coach requires a special ability, especially when it comes to dealing with the press and everything surrounding the club. It is not easy.”
The Brazilian is developing his own coaching career at São Paulo, the club where he began his playing journey. He said he was happy to return to familiar surroundings and help young players progress, while making clear that he hopes to take his coaching career abroad in the future.
“I know I will become a coach. What I want is to do it well. I have returned to my country to have the opportunity to grow and, when an opportunity comes outside Brazil, I want to do well there too, whether in Spain, England or somewhere else.”
Spain remains an especially attractive possibility because of the role LaLiga played in his career.
“I have great affection for the Spanish league because it was the competition that projected me onto the world stage. If the opportunity ever comes to return to Spain as a coach, it would be wonderful to do so in the same way I did as a player.”
For now, Baptista's immediate message is directed towards Madrid's supporters: give Vinícius the backing needed to rediscover his best football, rather than lose sight of what he can still offer the club.