Vinicius responds to criticism: "It's typical of being at the world's biggest club"

A day after playing a key role in Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory over Inter Milan, Vinicius gave an interview to popular Brazilian YouTube programme Desimpedidos.

The 20-year-old winger came off the bench to provide the assist for compatriot Rodrygo’s goal that secured the three points for Los Blancos, their first win in the Champions league following one defeat and one draw against Shakhtar Donetsk and Borussia Monchengladbach, respectively.

"I am happy, for the first victory in the Champions League and for giving some relief to the fans. Being able to come on with Rodrygo and helping the team is always important," began Vinicius, who went on to comment on captain Sergio Ramos’ important role in the team.

"He always congratulates you and talks to the whole group, to give us confidence and a morale boost. In all the goals, he is always the first to arrive for the celebration. That is important,” he explained.

On the topic of his goal assist for Rodrygo, asked whether his pass was originally for Karim Benzema, who was also in the area, or if it was intentionally delayed to reach his compatriot, Vinicius responded: "No, no, it was for Rodrygo. When I received the ball, I saw that two Inter defenders were coming back very fast. As we train together, we always make similar movements, and thank God that play ended up going well.”

‘Vini’ also spoke about playing at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano, Madrid’s second stadium located at their Valdebebas training ground where the first team are currently hosting their home fixtures behind closed doors.

"It's the subsidiary stadium, but the dimensions are the same. Maybe it's a little smaller, but it's the same grass as at the Bernabéu,” he said.

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After that, the Brazilian starlet fielded questions submitted by fans of the program...

What is it like to play well, change the game when you come in, score goals, give assists and then not even be an undisputed starter?

I am totally happy, we are here to help, I am 20 years old, Rodrygo is 19, and we have great players in our positions: Hazard, Asensio ... We must gain experience and pay close attention, because that helps us on the field. Against Inter we came on around 60’ and there was not much time. We had to get it right the first time.

But you get a lot of criticism...

I always think about those who want the best for me, my family, the people at the club, team mates who look out for me, like Marcelo and Casemiro, who always try to help me and put me on the right path. These criticisms are typical of being at the biggest club in the world. When we lose they talk about us and when we win they find it more difficult. I don't see much of what is said, I only turn on the TV to play football video games. They don't just talk about me, but also other players like Marcelo or Benzema. A Madrid player has to be prepared for that.

Who is the best center-back in Spanish football outside Madrid?

Piqué.

Who are your close with in the dressing room?

I have a good relationship with Benzema, with Lucas Vázquez, I talk a lot with them off the field. With Modric too, I usually sit with him at lunch.

Will you ever return to Flamengo?

I am sure that in the very distant future I will return to Flamengo to give back to the club everything it deserves.

How long has it been since you picked Barcelona when you play football video games?

I used to pick Barcelona when Neymar was there, I did it because of him. But I was always a Real Madrid fan. I also picked Madrid, with Cristiano, Bale and Benzema.