Vinicius Jr. is going through his worst moment at Real Madrid. His performance against AEK Athens in the Champions League confirmed that he is not currently at the level of the rest of his teammates, something that has been noticeable for some time and has also been perceived by Samuel Umtiti, former Football Club Barcelona player and commentator for the French network RMC.

“I feel sorry for him! For weeks, months, even whole stretches, he really hasn’t been at his best. He’s no longer frightening. He’s not frightening at all anymore,” he said. Umtiti is clear about what may have been the turning point in Vinicius’s career. “Ever since the Ballon d’Or he didn’t win, he has been affected. We’re struggling to find the lively Vini of before,” he concluded.

The Brazilian has lost his place at Real Madrid in favor of Diomandé, who is making the most of his opportunity. For the next match, Vinicius is still suspended, so Mourinho will not yet have to make a decision: whether to keep backing Diomandé or try to bring Vinicius back into the fold, respecting his hierarchy, at the risk of harming the team's overall performance. A level that has improved without the Brazilian on the pitch, as the team has found greater balance.