In a press conference ahead of the Champions League Round of 16 first-leg clash against Atlético Madrid, Vinícius Júnior made it clear what frustrates him about Spanish referees.
Real Madrid will host their city rivals Atlético this Tuesday in the Champions League. After two draws against Diego Simeone’s side in La Liga this season, the Madrid club will need to put in a strong performance at the Santiago Bernabéu to boost their chances of progressing to the next round. Ahead of this highly anticipated showdown, Vinícius Júnior faced the press. Asked about various topics, the 24-year-old Brazilian winger made some bold revelations.
300 matches for Real Madrid, two Champions League titles, now captain… What’s the key for tomorrow?
“I’m experiencing incredible moments with this shirt, living my dreams. We’ve been playing better since City. I hope the fans will be with us, and we will give our best to deliver a great performance for them.”
Do you feel more comfortable with European refereeing, like Ancelotti does?
“Yes, because in Europe, referees protect the players who entertain. We don’t like talking about referees, but of course, it’s important for us that they officiate well.”
Saudi Arabia offer – is it true, or do you want to renew your contract at Madrid?
“I’m very calm because I have a contract until 2027, and I hope to renew it as soon as possible because I’m happy here. Everyone loves and appreciates me. I couldn’t be in a better place.”
Can we reassure Madrid fans, regardless of the size of the offer?
“I’m here to continue making history, for everything the president and the club have given me. I hope to keep scoring goals and playing more matches in this shirt. I’ve won a lot, but I can win even more and cement my place in this club’s history alongside so many legends.”
Vinícius Júnior was the Real Madrid player chosen to speak to the media on the eve of their Champions League clash against Atlético Madrid.
Did you feel wronged by not winning the Ballon d’Or?
“No, people vote as they see fit. I have my own views. I never dreamed of winning the Ballon d’Or, but when you come close, you start believing in it. I will have more opportunities. I’ve already won two European Cups, and I’m here to win many more.”
The Ballon d’Or ceremony
“I do what the club tells me, and the club asked me to stay in Madrid.”
The derby – what kind of match are you expecting tomorrow?
“It will be a great game. A derby is a fixture you look forward to all season, and even more so in the Champions League. I’m excited to play in such a big match. Tomorrow will be a fantastic occasion for our fans, and the return leg will be the same for theirs.”
How do you evaluate your season so far?
“Right now, I’m at my best. I’ve had injuries. With so many games, you can’t always be at 100%. Playing 80 matches a year, it’s impossible to always be in top form, both physically and mentally. Many players play through injuries. I think my season is going well. It’s normal for people to expect more from me. But now is the crucial moment of the season, and at Madrid, we always step up at this stage.”
What triggers your reactions on the pitch?
“When referees don’t book the opposition, but the first time I complain, I get a yellow card. I do many things I shouldn’t, but with every match, I’m improving and calming down. Little by little, I’m getting better. I’ve been here for a long time, but people forget I’m only 24, I still have a lot to learn, and I will keep learning throughout my career.”
When did the team improve defensively?
“We always know that we must defend better, or we won’t win. The coach speaks to the front four to get us working harder. When the most important part of the season arrives, we play better, and we need to give our all for this team.”
Did you speak with Ancelotti about Saturday’s match?
“In the last game, we lacked a bit of everything. We started very well, but after 20 minutes, we made too many mistakes and got everything wrong. The good thing is that it happened in that match because tomorrow, we cannot afford to fail. If you fail, you go home. We’re here to improve and deliver a strong performance tomorrow.”
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