Vinícius Júnior has returned to pre-season training at Real Madrid, expressing satisfaction with life under new coach José Mourinho, even as speculation about his future at the Bernabéu continues. The 26-year-old Brazil forward, a key figure in Madrid's attack, gave an upbeat assessment of his second day of pre-season training under Mourinho amid reported interest from Arsenal.
Positive start under Mourinho
“It has gone very well, getting to know the new coach and the new players, and training very hard,” Vinícius told Real Madrid TV. “Mourinho wants me to be as I have always been: happy, cheerful and playing my football.”
His cheerful demeanor, however, masks a potentially thorny situation behind the scenes. Vinícius is in the final year of his contract with Real Madrid, with speculation that the club and player remain locked in negotiations while Arsenal explores a potential transfer.
Contract and performance
Vinícius has scored 128 goals and provided 100 assists for Madrid, with the club reluctant to let one of their prized assets leave for free next year. He had a busy summer playing for Brazil at the World Cup, where they were knocked out in the last 16, and his focus now is on preparing for the new campaign.
“We have to prepare physically so that during the season we have fewer injuries and can count on everyone,” said Vinícius, who was Brazil's top scorer at the World Cup with four goals. “It was a good training session and we all left very tired, but now it's time to rest for tomorrow. That's how pre-season is and we have to be ready.”
