Vinicius Junior has admitted he gets "upset" when receiving whistles from his own fans after he put in a man-of-the-match performance in Real Madrid's 6-1 win over Monaco. It was a fantastic night for the Brazilian who has felt the full force of Madridistas' backlash after Xabi Alonso's departure.
The 25-year-old came into the game after being whistled throughout a 2-0 win over Levante. There were still some supporters who targeted him at the Estadio Bernabeu tonight.
But once the winger hit his stride and bagged a goal and two assists he was applauded and fans could be heard chanting his name. He reacted to all the noise in the perfect manner tonight and produced one of his best performances of the season.
"I get upset" - Vinicius on fans whistling
Vinicius was visibly emotional ahead of Madrid's win over Levante on the weekend and had to be comforted by Kylian Mbappe. The French forward who was on target twice tonight made sure to go and celebrate with the Brazilian when he was handed his man-of-the-match award after the thrashing of Monaco.
Madrid's attacker opened up on how he's been feeling through the ordeal and gave an honest response to TNT Sports (via Madrid Xtra):
“My teammates gave me a lot of strength in the last days. I’m human too. I get upset by what people say, but every two or three days, we have the opportunity to prove ourselves.”
Vinicius hasn't enjoyed his best of seasons and endured a dismal run of form under Alonso. He went 18 games without scoring before coming up with a sensational solo run and goal in the 3-2 Supercopa de Espana final defeat to Barcelona.
Fans had already booed Vincius earlier this season but their recent reaction to him was more malicious than ever before. Tonight seemed to change the situation though as he reminded supporters of his world class ability.
Vinicius just needs love
Putting aside the rumors regarding a rift with Alonso, every Madridista knows just how talented Vinicius is. He has spent years delivering top drawer displays including goals in Champions League finals.
When the Brazil international receives love from fans he takes his game up a notch because he feels at ease. He looked focused and composed at the Bernabeu tonight and came up with some moments of dazzling dribbling along with his goal contributions.
Next up for Madrid is a trip to Villarreal on Saturday in La Liga and as Vinicius says his team have an opportunity to prove themselves. Just a point seperates Alvaro Arbeloa's Los Merengues and Barcelona at the top of the table.