According to Fabrizio Romano on Thursday, October 22, 2026, José Mourinho has come to the defence of Vinícius Júnior, emphasising that the Real Madrid forward needs encouragement and support from those around him. The Portuguese manager also expressed his satisfaction with the Brazilian’s display, noting that his exceptional talent has created enormous expectations whenever he takes to the field.

Mourinho acknowledged that Vinícius is the only person who can truly explain the pressure he experiences. However, he suggested that the demands placed on the winger stem from his ability to change the course of a match through his individual brilliance.

The Brazilian international has become one of football’s most dangerous attacking players, earning recognition for his explosive pace, impressive dribbling and ability to trouble defenders in one-on-one situations. His qualities have made him a key figure for his team, but they have also increased the expectations surrounding his performances, particularly during crucial fixtures.

According to Mourinho, the demands on Vinícius go beyond simply producing a good performance. Supporters and observers expect the forward to deliver decisive moments that can determine the outcome of matches. Such expectations can create considerable pressure, especially when opponents focus their defensive efforts on limiting his influence.

Despite these challenges, Mourinho praised Vinícius and indicated that he was pleased with what the attacker had produced on the pitch. His comments reflected his belief in the Brazilian’s abilities and his understanding of the responsibility that comes with being one of the team’s most influential players.

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager also highlighted the need for those around Vinícius to play their part in helping him succeed. He believes the responsibility for delivering results should not rest entirely on the forward’s shoulders, with teammates, coaches and supporters all having a role in creating an environment where he can perform confidently.

Vinícius has frequently attracted attention for both his performances and his conduct in high-pressure situations. While his technical ability is widely admired, he has also faced criticism when he has failed to meet the high standards expected of him.

Mourinho’s defence underlines the importance of recognising the challenges faced by elite footballers. Even players with exceptional ability can struggle when they are expected to produce match-winning performances consistently, particularly against opponents determined to neutralise their strengths.

His comments demonstrate his confidence in Vinícius and his belief that the Brazilian deserves backing rather than having to shoulder the full weight of expectations alone. With the right support, the forward will hope to continue making a significant impact at the highest level of the game.