The past eighteen months have been a challenging period for Vinícius Júnior on the pitch. Fluctuations in form, relentless scrutiny, and uncertainty over his future all contributed to a difficult spell for the Brazilian winger. Yet recent performances suggest that he is steadily regaining his top form and confidence.
Vinícius is currently contracted to Real Madrid until June 2027. While talks over a contract extension are ongoing, the 22-year-old has made it clear that he is happy in the Spanish capital. Speaking to Spanish content creator Ibai Llanos, Vinícius stated:
“I am very happy. Playing for Real Madrid, being with my family, and enjoying life here gives me immense joy. Being happy both on and off the pitch is the most important thing.”
The arrival of Kylian Mbappé at Real Madrid in the summer of 2024 initially had an impact on Vinícius’s performances, but the winger emphasised that their relationship is excellent.
“Every summer I would message him—‘When are you coming?’ I felt like I was acting as his agent. I did the same with Bellingham. I want to play with the best, to increase our chances of winning. We spend more time together than even with our families, so it’s vital to maintain a good relationship.”
Vinícius also reflected on the pressures of becoming a global star at a young age.
“At a young age, we are not prepared to handle fame. Suddenly, everyone knows you. Going out in public becomes difficult. The positive side is the love you receive, but the negative side is the pressure from media and rival supporters. I even enjoy the whistles from opponents. It is in these pressure moments that the best players prove themselves.”
He recently discussed mental aspects of professional football with Ronald Araújo, highlighting the importance of listening to all feedback, not just praise.
“You have to hear everything, not only the good things,” he said.
For a clearer overview, the table below summarises Vinícius Júnior’s current situation and professional highlights:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Vinícius Júnior |
| Age | 22 (as of 2026) |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Position | Winger |
| Current Club | Real Madrid |
| Contract | Until June 2027 |
| Key Teammates | Kylian Mbappé, Ronald Araújo, Jude Bellingham |
| Recent Form | Returning to top performance |
| Focus | Mental resilience, strong relationships, winning mentality |
Vinícius’s candid remarks underline how crucial personal relationships, mental wellbeing, and resilience are in sustaining elite-level football performance. His friendship with Mbappé and bonds with other teammates not only enhance on-field chemistry but also provide him with the support network needed to thrive under intense scrutiny. As Vinícius regains his rhythm, both fans and pundits are watching closely to see him reach the peak of his potential once again.