The end of the road for Vinicius at Real Madrid
Feels different
Vinicius has had a tough year at the Bernabéu, dealing with injuries that have really slowed him down. He’s still in the starting XI and doing his bit, but something’s been missing. Something is not clicking for the Brazilian winger.
He no longer seems to be an essential part of the team.
Prior to Bellingham's arrival in the club, Vini was the center of attention. Every attacking play would be focused down his wing. The game now moves and shifts differently, and Vinicius seems to react to it rather than shape it. His most recent performance against FC Barcelona, which saw Real Madrid loose 4-3, has sparked a lot of questions regarding the Brazilian and his performances this season.
The team no longer helps him as before
Vini has less space to attack, but he also receives fewer passes up the field. He still tries to make things happen down the left wing, but it feels like he's pushing things too hard.
The feeling has cooled down
From the fans, the squad, the club: there's less warmth around him. There's no hostility, just less energy. Some whistles can be heard from the stands. This could mark a turning point between the fans and the player.
There is interest
Premier League clubs have shown serious interest in the Brazilian winger, while the Saudi Pro League is also eager to lure the Real Madrid star to their growing competition. Both sides are watching closely—could a big move be on the horizon?
The contract is not the issue
He is linked to the Spanish club until 2027, however, everyone knows that Real Madrid won't hesitate to sell him if it's the right course of action ahead of the 2025-26 season.
He keeps trying
None of this is due to a lack of effort. Vini keeps pushing, keeps chasing, keeps coming back to help out on defence. His commitment hasn't waned. In fact, he seems to be trying to compensate for his shortcomings. That could be part of the problem.
He's not longer shining
It's not something that can be reduced to a statistic. It's simply the feeling that something has changed. A player who once shone on the pitch no longer shines. At a club like Madrid, that's what the beginning of the end usually looks like.
