José Mourinho has publicly backed Vinícius Júnior, praising the Brazilian winger’s attitude and commitment despite admitting that he has not yet rediscovered his devastating best form.
Speaking about the Real Madrid star, Mourinho delivered a clear message of support and patience.
“Vini has worked a lot. He is not in killer mode yet, he is not Vini yet, but he is working very hard,” Mourinho said. “Anyone who works hard and gives everything deserves respect.”
The comments underline Mourinho’s confidence in Vinícius at a time when the Brazilian is still searching for the level of consistency and explosiveness that made him one of the most feared attackers in world football.
For Mourinho, however, the most important thing is not only what happens during the 90 minutes. The Portuguese coach appears particularly impressed by Vinícius’ attitude behind the scenes, his work in training and his determination to return to his best level.
The expression “killer mode” perfectly sums up what Mourinho expects from the winger. At his best, Vinícius is capable of deciding matches almost single-handedly with his pace, dribbling, movement and ability to create danger in the final third.
Right now, Mourinho believes that version of the Brazilian has not completely returned.
But there is no sign that the Real Madrid coach is losing patience. Quite the opposite. His words seem designed to protect Vinícius while also challenging him to continue pushing himself.
Mourinho has always placed enormous importance on commitment, intensity and sacrifice. For the Portuguese manager, players who work hard and give everything for the team deserve his support, even when their performances are not yet perfect.
That philosophy explains why he was so quick to defend Vinícius.
The Brazilian continues to occupy an important place in Real Madrid’s attacking plans, and Mourinho clearly believes that his best football will eventually return if he maintains the same level of dedication.
Vinícius has already shown throughout his career that he can be decisive on the biggest stage. His ability to beat defenders, attack space and create opportunities makes him one of the most dangerous forwards in European football when he is full of confidence.
⚪️🇧🇷 José Mourinho: “Vini has worked very hard. He’s not in killer mode yet, he’s not Vini yet, but he works very hard”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 9, 2026
“Anyone who works hard and gives their all deserves respect”. pic.twitter.com/dz0ECxi9pE
The challenge now is to rediscover that instinctive, ruthless version of himself.
Mourinho’s message is therefore both supportive and demanding. He recognizes that Vinícius is not yet performing at his maximum level, but he refuses to question the player’s commitment.
For the Real Madrid coach, hard work remains the foundation of everything.
“Anyone who works hard and gives everything deserves respect.”
It is a simple statement, but one that reveals Mourinho’s position clearly: Vinícius still has work to do, but as long as he continues fighting, training and giving everything for Real Madrid, he will continue to have the full respect and support of his manager.
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