Jose Mourinho sends message to Vinicius Junior after Arsenal snub
· James Goldman · 2026-08-08 · nguồn gốc
Jose Mourinho insists it is a source of enormous pride that Vnicius Junior has committed to Real Madrid and turned down a move to Arsenal.
The Brazil international ended speculation surrounding his future earlier this week by signing a new long-term contract.
It appeared that the 26-year-old was ready to turn his back on the Spanish giants amid an ongoing pay dispute.
Arsenal, who are desperate to reinforce their attack with a superstar signing, attempted to capitalise on the uncertainty and offered Vinicius a financial package that would have rendered him the Premier League’s best paid player.
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Vinicus was said to be attracted to the idea of moving to the English champions and Champions League finalists, but ultimately decided to renew his deal and remain at the Bernabeu.
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‘The most important thing is the renewal. Renewing the contract is a source of happiness for him, of course, but it’s also a source of happiness for all of us,’ said new Real boss Mourinho after watching his side beat Ferencvaros in a pre-season friendly.
Vinicius was introduced as a second half substitute in a 2-1 win an Mourinho admits it will take his star winger time to get back up to speed after his World Cup exploits.
He said: ‘Vini has done very few training sessions. I wasn’t expecting him to take the ball and run 50 meters with it and score a goal today, his legs are still tired and fatigued.
‘He’ll definitely be in a better place next Wednesday, and the following Sunday.’
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Vinicius will have several new teammates to get used to after a typically ambitious summer recruitment drive which has seen the likes of Bernardo Silva join and add more experience to the dressing room.
Speaking about the role he envisages for his Portuguese compatriot, Mourinho said: ‘He is a very important player.
‘He’s another player who was on vacation. He’s the type of player who completely disconnects from mental work and does nothing during the break, and he came back with much lower physical fitness that needs development.
‘But Bernardo is a fantastic player who gives us excellent ball progression, whether playing in a deeper position or in midfield.’
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