Vinícius admits Real Madrid ‘failed’ as he reflects on struggles, Mbappé bond, and future

Vinícius Júnior has offered a candid assessment of Real Madrid’s season, calling it one of the most difficult periods of his career during an interview with Cazé TV.

“It has been a very difficult season,” he said. “We started well, ahead of Barcelona, but then we began to lose and draw matches we should have won. We lost confidence and Barcelona gained momentum. It is the first time I have gone two seasons without winning. We failed. We have a team to win next year. Real Madrid always comes back.”

He also pointed to the emotional turning point in his Madrid career.

“My first year was also very difficult, when Cristiano left.”

Inside a changing Real Madrid dressing room

The Brazilian forward also highlighted how much the squad has changed following the departures and absences of key leaders.

“Without Nacho, without Modric, with Carvajal injured, without Kroos, they gave a lot of experience to the team,” he said.

“Now Fede and I have experience on the pitch, but not in the locker room. We do not yet have enough experience to carry that burden. We still have to keep learning.”

Vinícius believes that process will shape the team moving forward.

“This season we learned a lot about the locker room. Next season we will be a better group, more united, better as a team. We are going through a cycle where we have to change our roles to help.”

He added that sustained success has also changed expectations inside the club.

“Sometimes it is good to see what you had and understand how hard it is to win everything we have won. I got used to winning. There is a lot of pressure. That is part of being at the best club in the world. People are waiting for us to fail, and we have failed two years in a row. We cannot fail again.”

Contract talks and future at the Bernabéu

Vinícius was clear about his long-term commitment to Real Madrid.

“I have never imagined myself outside Real Madrid. I take advantage of every minute I am here because it is the club of my dreams.”

He also confirmed his leadership role is growing.

“Now I am one of the captains, and that is very important. I want to stay here my whole life.”

His contract runs until 2027, but he says discussions are ongoing.

“I have to speak with Madrid and Madrid has to speak with me. The club is calm and I am calm. The president trusts me and I trust him. We will wait.”

His relationship with Mbappé

Vinícius also spoke warmly about Kylian Mbappé and their connection on and off the pitch.

“I have always had a good relationship with Mbappé, also off the field. I used to send him many messages to try to convince him to come to Madrid.”

He believes their partnership still has room to grow.

“We have not yet played at our best together or won titles, but we can change that. He is a great person. He defends me in interviews and on the pitch, like against Benfica. I would do the same for him. He is a legendary player who will define an era at Real Madrid.”

Criticism, growth, and breaking through doubts

Vinícius reflected on the criticism he has faced since arriving in Spain.

“When I arrived at Madrid, people said I would not play, then that I would not score, then that I would not win. In the end, I overcame all of it.”

He also addressed the early doubts over his transfer fee.

“They said I was expensive at €45 million ($52.4 million), and in the end I became cheap for everything I achieved. The president and the fans love me.”

Lamine Yamal and respect for rivals

On Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal, Vinícius was full of praise.

“Lamine is one of those players people pay to watch. He is very good and very difficult to play against. I am sure he also admires Madrid players.”

Endrick, nerves, and a first World Cup experience

Vinícius also revealed how he supported young Brazilian forward Endrick during a tense period around international selection.

“Endrick was driving me crazy. He texted me every day saying he was nervous. I told him to calm down, that everything would be fine. He made it. A World Cup at 19 is not for everyone.”

Brazil, pressure, and a reset in form

Reflecting on his performances with the Brazilian national team, Vinícius admitted the difference from club football.

“At my club we play every three days and can show our level. With the national team it is harder, and I have not been at the same level.”

He added that expectations are high in Brazil.

“We have been disappointing people, but now is the time for everyone to pull together and change our story.”

World Cup ambitions and global favorites

Looking ahead to the World Cup, Vinícius set high expectations.

“I hope the eight World Cup matches will be the best games of my life. Playing for Brazil in the biggest tournament in football is a dream since I was a child.”

He also named the main contenders.

“Spain, France, Argentina, Portugal, and Germany are the favorites.”

Neymar, mentorship, and a possible reunion

Vinícius spoke emotionally about Neymar’s influence.

“Neymar is our idol. He has always been very important to me and has defended me a lot.”

He also shared a lighter moment between Neymar and Brazil’s coaching situation.

“After every call-up, Neymar would tell me he was sad not to be selected. I told him the coach trusted him and would bring him when the time came.”

He added:

“Playing with him again would be an honor. Hopefully, a wonderful last dance.”

Flamengo return still on the horizon

Finally, Vinícius addressed his future in Brazil.

“I will not return in the next four years. I am only 25. But one day I will go back. Maybe in nine or 10 years.”

He made clear he still has long-term ambitions in European football before heading home.

“I am working to extend my career and arrive in Brazil in good condition to win the Libertadores.”

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