Madrid, April 7: Following their unexpected defeat to RCD Mallorca, Real Madrid is set to face Bayern Munich on Tuesday night at the Santiago Bernabeu. This match marks the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, and Alvaro Arbeloa’s squad will face a formidable Bayern team that has been nearly unstoppable this season.
In the lead-up to this highly anticipated match, Vinicius Jr. participated in a pre-match press conference, addressing several significant topics, including his relationship with former manager Xabi Alonso and current head coach Arbeloa.
On the Game and the Future
Vinicius emphasized the importance of fan support in achieving victory against Bayern. “Surely, the connection between the players and the fans always changes the dynamic of home games and Champions League matches,” he stated. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Bayern but expressed confidence in their experience. “A good team is coming, but we have experience in these kinds of games, and hopefully, we can perform well.”
Reflecting on the loss to Mallorca, he noted, “There are good days and bad days; some days we’re more or less focused. That’s what happened in Mallorca. We were coming off the break, and as the manager said, if you’re not at 200%, you don’t win matches.”
One major topic surrounding Vinicius has been his contract, which expires in 2027. While discussions about a renewal are ongoing, he confirmed his desire to remain at the club. “I hope I can stay here for a long time. I still have a year left on my contract, but I’m very calm. I have the president’s confidence. At the right time, I’ll renew and stay here for a long time because this is my dream club,” he shared.
Regarding his physical and emotional state, Vinicius remarked, “I’m feeling great now. I’ve had some tough times this season when I wasn’t scoring and the fans were booing me, but it was all a learning experience. I’m physically fit. Traveling with the national team changes things a bit, but I’m working at the club and also at home with my physio to be 100% ready for my team.”
On Alonso and Arbeloa
Vinicius acknowledged his challenging relationship with former coach Xabi Alonso. “I played matches but not many minutes. Every coach has their methods, and I didn’t connect with him the way he wanted. But it was a learning experience, and I hope to continue with Arbeloa, with whom I have a wonderful connection and who has always given me confidence.”
He further elaborated on his relationship with Arbeloa, stating, “I’ve had a special connection with Arbeloa, just like I did with Ancelotti. He’s always made it clear what he wants from me. I’ve always given my best, and I’m going to keep doing so. I don’t think I’ve ever gone this long without scoring a goal. I’ve learned from this rough patch, and I want to keep learning. The best players always bounce back.”
Vinicius also addressed his earlier outburst at Alonso during a La Liga match against Barcelona, saying, “It wasn’t a nice moment; I apologized to everyone. I like to play every game, and I didn’t come off in any of them. Later, with a clear head, you can understand that you made a mistake. I’m young, and every day is a new experience where you can improve.”
On Mbappe, Militao, and Kane
Vinicius spoke about fellow superstar Kylian Mbappe, who faced criticism after the Mallorca defeat. “People say a lot of things. Kylian is here to help us; he gives us confidence with his goals. We have to be focused tomorrow. It’s a tough match where great players make the difference, and Mbappe is one of them.”
He addressed comments about his defensive efforts while playing alongside Mbappe, stating, “Of course, it bothers me, but people are there to say what they want. We have to listen to the manager. What comes from outside doesn’t affect us. We can make each other better.”
On the potential impact of Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, Vinicius remarked, “They’re a tough side because he scores a lot of goals, but they’ve got a really strong team with players who switch positions. Whoever plays, it’s going to be very difficult, and we need to be prepared.”
Vinicius expressed happiness about Eder Militao’s return after a four-month absence, saying, “I’m really happy about his return. He’s one of my best friends. He’s the best center-back in the world, and we’re better when we’re with him. When all the players are back, we’re stronger. Now Jude, Militao, Ceballos are returning…”
As a prominent figure in the fight against racism in football, Vinicius addressed the issue, stating, “It’s a complicated issue, and it happens a lot. I hope Lamine [Yamal] can continue this fight as well. We have money, but poor Black people have more difficulties than we do. I’m not saying that Spain, Germany, or Portugal are racist countries, but there are racists in every country, and if we fight together, hopefully, other players and people will stop suffering these things.”
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