Mourinho backs Vinicius Junior to regain form at Real Madrid
The Brazilian has scored once in 12 appearances this season and will finish his four-game domestic suspension against Valencia.
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has pledged to help Vinicius Junior recover his best form, while stressing that the team's interests must come first. Speaking to reporters on November 6, Mourinho expressed confidence in the forward despite his difficult start to the campaign.
The 26-year-old has contributed three assists and one goal across 12 appearances in all competitions. His four-game domestic ban ends with the La Liga fixture against Valencia, leaving him eligible to return to league action following the November international break.
Mourinho defended the Brazilian's performance against AEK Athens in the Champions League, saying it would have been considered good for a player facing lower expectations. He said selecting Vinicius also allowed Arda Guler, who had some issues, to rest. The coach said he would use different approaches to help the forward improve, but would not put an individual ahead of the team.
Mourinho also pointed to support from Vinicius's teammates as important to his recovery. The forward has recorded 129 goals and 103 assists across 387 Real Madrid appearances. He signed a new long-term contract after being linked heavily with Arsenal during the summer transfer window.
