Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has revealed why Brazilian star Vinicius Junior did not force a move to Premier League champions Arsenal.
The Los Blancos star was the top target for the Gunners this summer, but the move to London did not materialise in the end.
Finally, the 26-year-old decided to remain in the Spanish capital as he signed a contract extension, with the fresh deal set to expire in the summer of 2032.
Now the Portuguese manager has revealed why Vinicius opted to remain at Los Blancos.
Mourinho has now spoken about the Brazilian’s decision to remain at Real Madrid, with the legendary manager surprised he didn’t force a move away from the club.
“He’s a fantastic guy, and it’s easy to get along with him. I spend a few minutes alone with him every day. I value him immensely because he always manages to live and survive with a smile,” Mourinho said ahead of Madrid’s match with Sevilla on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
“If I were in his shoes, I probably wouldn’t be here. I would have forced a move to a country where he’d be respected, but out of loyalty to Real Madrid and love for the club, he stayed. He believes things can improve, and he still has that smile. Nothing and no one can take it away from him.”
Real Madrid under Mourinho
The two-time Champions League-winning manager is currently in charge of Madrid for the second time in his career.
Mourinho’s task is to bring silverware back to the Bernabeu, just like the first time he was at the club, as Real Madrid have not claimed any in the last two campaigns.
While there appeared to be an overall positive feeling about his appointment, as he was seen as an authoritative figure who could sort out the dressing room.
However, the club are already nine points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race and have given a level of performance this season that would have pundits thinking they can claim the Champions League.
