The forward was involved in a costly mistake as Roma moved 2-1 ahead, losing possession in midfield with an attempted backheel that allowed the Italian side to launch the attack. Mourinho made his frustration clear before replacing Vinícius with Endrick, who helped transform the match alongside Arda Güler and Carlos Espí.
Speaking to Movistar Plus, former Real Madrid player and coach Jorge Valdano argued that the winger’s difficulties extend beyond one error. He believes the aftermath of Xabi Alonso’s departure last season has affected the relationship between Vinícius and sections of the club’s support.
“He is a player who can make a real difference. Players like that have to be kept competing because they are very important, but he has to understand that in a squad as strong as Real Madrid’s, there will be nights when you are not inspired and you can improve the team by accepting substitutions that might work against you,” Valdano said.
“It was a substitution last year that damaged his time at Real Madrid because a large part of the supporters and the club held him responsible for Xabi Alonso’s departure. He has therefore understood how the Real Madrid fans think. Being an intelligent person, I understand that he has to start understanding his role in the team on the days when he is inspired and on the days when he is not.”
Valdano also highlighted the decline in Vinícius’ ability to unsettle defenders consistently, the quality that previously made him one of Europe’s most dangerous attackers.
“It is an error that will define the match and be discussed a lot, but he was also very subdued apart from the mistake. We are no longer seeing him beat opponents five times a match and attempt it 15 times with the same frequency as before,” he added.
The numbers underline the concern. According to *AS*, Vinícius had scored once and provided three assists in 731 minutes this season, while his rate of attempted dribbles had fallen substantially compared with his most productive campaigns. Against Roma, he failed to register a shot or complete a dribble before his substitution.
Vinícius has acknowledged that he is not at his best, insisting after the match that he remains confident of recovering his form.
“I’m not saying I’m worried, but I am angry with myself for not being at my best. In the end, Vini always comes back. I’m sure the best Vinícius will return. It’s a bad moment for me, but I have to keep working and things will come back,” he said.
He also accepted that supporters were entitled to express their feelings, although he hoped the team could count on their backing.
Meanwhile, *Marca* reported that Valdano considered Mourinho’s substitutions decisive in the comeback, despite the tension surrounding Vinícius’ removal. The Madrid coach’s changes brought fresh energy and helped expose Roma’s inability to maintain their earlier intensity.
The victory eased the pressure on Madrid in Europe, but Vinícius’ form remains a separate concern. With a four-match domestic suspension also limiting his immediate opportunities in LaLiga, his next Champions League appearances will be important chances to show that his confidence and attacking threat are returning.