Mourinho: Vinicius Must Regain His Starting Place at Real Madrid

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho said Vinicius Junior will not automatically reclaim his starting place when he returns, stressing that the team’s performances will determine his future selections.

The Brazilian forward has scored just one goal in all competitions this season and is missing La Liga matches while serving a three-match suspension. During his absence, Yan Diomande has had an opportunity and impressed, while Vinicius is nearing the end of his domestic suspension.

Mourinho said no player would be guaranteed a place on reputation alone, adding that Vinicius had featured in Real Madrid’s last two Champions League matches and that he would deal with his return when he was fully available. Diomande’s competition could make it more difficult for the Brazilian to return to the starting lineup.