The club even snubbed the Ballon d’Or ceremony in protest of Vinicius being overlooked in favor of Manchester City’s Rodri. ..Continue Reading
However, despite such shows of loyalty, the bond between player and club appears to be weakening.
During Real Madrid’s recent loss to Valencia, Vinicius was met with boos from the home crowd, despite scoring their only goal at the Bernabeu.
The team’s uninspired performance — especially following Vinicius’ erratic showing against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League — led to frustration among fans.
Valencia sealed their victory with a stoppage-time goal, compounding the disappointment.
Now, there are murmurs from within the club that Vinicius’ time at Madrid may be nearing its end. Names such as Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting CP), Rafael Leão (AC Milan), and Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray) have surfaced as potential replacements.
Should the Brazilian star depart, a switch to another European side or a lucrative move to a Saudi Pro League team backed by the Public Investment Fund seems possible.
Yet, it’s said Vinicius has a personal dream of playing for a particular club outside of those circles.
Vinicius had a strong case for Ballon d’Or recognition after helping Real Madrid secure both La Liga and Champions League titles in 2023–24. Though he craves personal success, he’s also driven by emotion and sentiment.
His current contract ties him to Madrid until the summer of 2027, but it’s clear that his ideal destination won’t be paying the €1 billion release clause — nor will it be matching the financial muscle of Saudi clubs.
“I think I could stay here my whole career, but the club of my life is Flamengo,” he told L’Équipe in 2023.
“I love life here in general, and it’s going well for my family too. When my loved ones walk around, they are recognised and they wish us nothing but happiness.
“Little by little, I discovered this new life, new emotions, a fervour… Madrid is unique. Everyone around the world tells me about this club.”
Though he holds a deep fondness for Madrid and his relationship with the club is growing increasingly strained, Vinicius Jr continues to carry Flamengo in his heart.
The 24-year-old, a native of Rio de Janeiro, spent over ten years with the Brazilian side, making more than 50 senior appearances before Real Madrid signed him in 2018.
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