Kylian Mbappe has called on Real Madrid supporters to stop singling out Vinicius Jr for the team's recent struggles, insisting the entire squad must share responsibility for their faltering form. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the France forward appealed for unity ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash with Monaco at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The plea follows a tense atmosphere during Saturday's 2-0 La Liga victory over Levante, when Vinicius was jeered throughout the match, including during the starting lineup announcement. Although the win moved Real Madrid to within a point of Barcelona, who lost 2-1 at Real Sociedad, frustration among fans has been growing.
Recent disappointments include defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final and a shock 3-2 Copa del Rey exit to second-division side Albacete. The sacking of manager Xabi Alonso last week, just seven months into his tenure, has added to the turmoil, with reports of internal discord between the former boss and Vinicius contributing to the unrest.
Broadcast footage from Saturday showed a visibly emotional Vinicius sitting on the stairs leading to the pitch after hearing boos during the lineup announcement. Mbappe, who comforted the 23-year-old before the game, stressed the need to protect the winger. "Vini, like you, like her, like everyone else, he's a human being," Mbappe said. "He's an unbelievable talent, a great guy, and I'm fortunate to know him. We all need to protect him better."
Mbappe added: "He's not alone at Real Madrid, and we're all with him. When he's at his best, he's one of the best players in the world. My job is to support him, look after him. When he's happy, he's a difference-maker, and that should be our collective focus."
Real Madrid have the chance to move closer to Champions League last-16 qualification with a win over Monaco, a result that could help the team rediscover their rhythm and encourage fans to offer the united backing the club desperately needs.
