Former Real Madrid manager Jorge Valdano has offered a detailed assessment of Los Blancos’ emphatic 6-1 victory over AS Monaco.
He also used the platform to reflect not only on the team’s performance but also on the situation surrounding Vinicius Jr.
The former player, coach, and sporting director made it clear that the Brazilian has enjoyed extraordinary backing from the club at every level.
Analysing the context around the Brazilian, Valdano was emphatic when addressing claims that the forward lacks support inside the club.
From his point of view, the reality could not be more different. Speaking about the institutional backing Vinicius has received, he stated,
“It’s impossible to have more support than Vinicius has had. From the president and now from the new coach. It’s impossible.”
More on Vinicius and Perez
Valdano went further by highlighting the personal involvement of Florentino Perez in supporting the Brazilian.
Vinicius Jr., Alvaro Arbeloa
Valdano has praised Vinicius’ attitude. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
“Everything Florentino has done for Vinicius is unprecedented in the history of football,” he said, before recalling one of the most symbolic decisions made by the club hierarchy.
“Getting an entire team off a bus and not attending the Ballon d’Or gala because he didn’t win it, I think that’s a sign not only of affection, but of the club’s commitment to the player,” he added.
The former Argentina international also addressed Vinicius’ behaviour on the pitch, particularly his reaction after scoring against Monaco.
Unlike previous goals at the Santiago Bernabeu, the Brazilian chose not to celebrate with the crowd, instead turning immediately towards his teammates.
“Vinicius has shown that it’s not easy. He got his revenge on people in a way. He didn’t celebrate his great goal with the fans,” he explained.
While Valdano believes the incident will quickly fade from public memory, he still sees it as meaningful in understanding the player.
“It will be forgotten in three days, but it does give an indication of the player’s personality,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo