Jose Mourinho, head coach of Real Madrid
Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images
Real Madrid put an end to Vinicius Jr.’s long-running transfer saga by extending his contract until 2032.
The Brazilian has signed a lucrative contract that should seal his long-term future at Santiago Bernabeu and it is evident the club want to keep him happy.
Vinicius has been an asset for Los Blancos over the years and Real Madrid are working hard to make sure the player feels at home, despite having made so many signings this summer.
According to El Larguero, Jose Mourinho is set to take Vinicius under his wing and act as a father figure to the Brazilian going forward.
Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Real Madrid
Mourinho will back Vinicius at every turn. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images)
The report suggests Mourinho intends to be by Vinicius’ side at all times, aware that the winger is a good but highly emotional character whose temperament has occasionally led him into trouble.
The Portuguese understands that, and believes his guidance can help the player channel his emotions more effectively.
Having previously held out for a package worth close to €30 million, the Brazilian ultimately accepted a €24 million base salary, boosted by significant bonuses, effectively choosing glory over money by turning down Arsenal’s ambitious interest.
That father-figure relationship is no surprise given the part Mourinho reportedly played in getting the deal over the line.
Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid
Vinicius expected to play a key role at Real Madrid next season. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The Portuguese was absolutely key to the renewal, directly intervening to ensure the player stayed.
Mourinho is said to have called Vinicius multiple times during the holidays to sell him on his project and open his mind to accepting Real Madrid’s offer, with the pair also speaking regularly after training.
The two now share a strong relationship despite the fallout from last season’s Champions League tie against Benfica, when Mourinho appeared to criticise the winger.
With the renewal secured, Vinicius will now look to justify the faith placed in him and rediscover his best form.
The immediate priority, however, will be improving his chemistry with Kylian Mbappe, which was surprisingly poor last season.
Thiago Pitarch of Real Madrid
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Thiago Pitarch of Real Madrid
Pitarch has been linked with a move away from Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Jose Mourinho, head coach of Real Madrid
Mourinho wants both Brahim and Pitarch in the team. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)