Vinicius Junior is now claimed to be considering leaving Real Madrid after he was booed in his side's 2-0 win over Levante on Saturday (January 18th). The Brazilian winger's future has been in doubt throughout the season as his contract expires in the summer of 2027.
Madrid are under pressure to either get Vinicius to extend his deal or consider selling this summer due to him entering the last year of his contract. He's been at the Estadio Bernabeu since 2018 and delivered some of the greatest performances in the club's history.
But a poor run of form which included an 18-game goal drought had already led to moans and groans from Madridistas. Reports regarding his supposed role in Xabi Alonso's dismissal has made his relationship with the fans reach boiling point.
Vinicius doesn't want to stay if he's not wanted
Vinicius was visibly upset by the whistling he received during the win against Levante. He had to be consoled by Kylian Mbappe ahead of the game and he headed down the tunnel immediately once the final whistle was blown.
According to El Periodico, the 25-year-old has been so hurt by the treatment he receieved from fans that he feels he is no longer welcome at the Bernabeu. They quote him as saying (via The Touchline on X): "I don't want to play in a place where I'm not welcome."
Vinicius endured a difficult spell under Alonso, showing visible frustration whenever he was substituted. There are claims that their relationship was at its worst when Madrid headed to Saudi Arabia for the Supercopa de Espana finals.
The Brazilian winger put in his best performance of the season in a 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the final. He scored a stunning goal, going on a dazzling solo run which reminded fans just how talented he is.
Arbeloa has plan for Vinicius
While Vinicius' future remains uncertain his new manager has vowed to get him playing at the peak of his powers. Alvaro Arbeloa who replaced Alonso as caretaker coach spoke after the win against Levante (via Managing Madrid):
"I'm going to work to improve Vinicius, I'm going to ask his teammates to give him as many balls as possible, he's the most unpredictable player in the world"
Vinicius has shown he has the ability to be one of the best attacking talents in the world. He has turned it on in big games including Champions League finals with goals against Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund.
But the Brazilian's mentality and attitude have been scrutinized amid several performances that have been way below his standards. He has appeared 29 times across competitions this season, posting six goals and eight assists.