Matthaus urges Mourinho to reconsider Vinicius Junior's starting role

Lothar Matthaus has called on Jose Mourinho to consider keeping Vinicius Junior among Real Madrid's substitutes once his suspension ends, arguing that the team plays better without the Brazil international.

Speaking to reporters in Munich ahead of Bayern Munich's match against Borussia Dortmund, Matthaus criticized the winger's attitude and body language, according to Bild. The former Germany captain said Vinicius's behavior undermined Madrid's teamwork and urged either Mourinho or club president Florentino Perez to intervene.

Vinicius received a four-match La Liga suspension after being sent off against Villarreal on October 10 for pulling Nathan Saliba's hair. The punishment also covered his protests toward the referee. Diomande had started ahead of him before the Brazilian came off the bench.

Matthaus cited Madrid's 2-1 win over Barcelona and 4-3 Champions League victory against Roma to support his argument. Vinicius missed the Barcelona match through suspension. Against Roma, he was replaced in the 59th minute with Madrid 3-1 behind, before Endrick and other substitutes helped turn the game around.

Vinicius later accepted that Mourinho was right to substitute him, despite his initial frustration. Mourinho has said selection depends on performances rather than reputation. The winger will also miss league matches against Racing Santander and Valencia, with his domestic return scheduled after the November international break.