Vinicius Junior is officially back at work. After enjoying several weeks of vacation following a long and demanding season, the Brazilian forward has returned to Real Madrid’s training centre and started preparing for the new campaign under José Mourinho.
The 26-year-old completed his first sessions with the Portuguese coach and is gradually discovering the methods, expectations and intensity Mourinho has introduced since taking charge of the Spanish giants. Speaking to Real Madrid TV, Vinicius shared his first impressions of the new coaching staff and the atmosphere within the squad.
“The return has gone very well. I have been getting to know the new coach and the new players, and we are training very hard,” the Brazilian explained.
For Vinicius, the beginning of pre-season is also an opportunity to build a relationship with Mourinho. The Portuguese manager is known for his strong personality, tactical demands and ability to motivate his most important players. However, according to the Real Madrid number seven, Mourinho’s first message was simple: he wants Vinicius to remain true to himself.
“Mourinho wants me to be the way I have always been: happy, joyful and playing my football,” Vinicius said.
These words suggest that Mourinho intends to give the Brazilian freedom to express himself on the pitch. At his best, Vinicius is one of the most dangerous attackers in world football, capable of changing a match through his pace, dribbling and creativity. The coach appears determined to restore his confidence and ensure that he continues to enjoy his football despite the pressure surrounding him.
Unsurprisingly, Real Madrid’s official media did not question the player about his contractual situation. Vinicius has recently been at the centre of speculation regarding a possible contract extension, but club media traditionally avoid discussing sensitive negotiations directly with players.
Instead, the interview focused on the importance of completing a strong pre-season. Vinicius stressed that physical preparation would be crucial in helping the squad avoid injuries and remain competitive throughout the campaign.
“We have to prepare ourselves properly from a physical point of view so that there are fewer injuries during the season and so that everyone can be available,” he explained.
The Brazilian also described the demanding nature of the training sessions. Mourinho and his staff have placed a strong emphasis on physical conditioning, strength work and short, intense exercises designed to improve the players’ fitness levels.
“Today, we did some work in the gym and some short exercises to put more load on our legs,” Vinicius said. “It was a good training session, and we all finished very tired. Now, we have to recover for tomorrow. Pre-season is like that, and we have to be ready.”
Vinicius’ return is an important boost for Real Madrid as the club continues preparing for the new season. With Mourinho demanding intensity, discipline and commitment from his squad, the Brazilian will be expected to play a central role in the team’s attacking plans.
The early signs are encouraging. Vinicius appears motivated, relaxed and ready to embrace a new chapter under one of football’s most successful coaches.
Ele odeia mais o Mourinho do que o Xabi Alonso pic.twitter.com/LSD56bfGd8
— 007️⃣ (@007vjr) August 3, 2026
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to react.