Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has defended Vinicius Junior after the Brazilian was booed by his own supporters during Wednesdays 4-1 Champions League win over RB Leipzig. Vinicius has endured a difficult start to the season, scoring just once in 11 appearances, and was again unable to find the net at the Santiago Bernabeu.The 26-year-old was substituted in the 70th minute, with sections of the home crowd making their frustration clear.Speaking after the match, Mourinho admitted that criticism from home supporters can be particularly difficult for players to handle.When you are on the pitch and you are whistled when playing away, often its a boost to your motivation. When its at home, it hurts, he said.Only he can say whether he feels sad, but I am pleased.Vini put in a good tactical performance. Vini defended very well. He then had a chance to score a brilliant goal, but the goalkeeper made a great save.Work, work. He cannot play but he can work his physique with an individualised plan, he told TNT Sports Brazil.But I was happy with his performance. Ok, he didnt score, he wasnt man of the match but he had a good game for the team.Mbappe urges Vinicius to stay confidentMbappe also offered his support after another frustrating evening for his attacking team-mate.The Frenchman was named player of the match after assisting Madrids second goal and scoring their third.Despite Vinicius struggles, Mbappe believes his frustration demonstrates how much he cares about performing for the club.Hes doing well, Mbappe said.Its good that hes upset because it means he wants to give a lot to the team and the fans.I think he just needs to stay calm and proud of who he is. A great player must always take pride in who they are and gain confidence because the quality is there.Vinicius appeared to acknowledge his difficult situation on social media after the game, writing: Living in the moment. Everything passes. Topics Jose Mourinho Real Madrid CF Vinicius Junior If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Barcelona official slams Real Madrid as a disgrace and launches attack on Jose Mourinho ahead of Clasico Mitch Fretton 22nd October, 2026 Real Madrid 4-1 RB Leipzig: Mourinhos men cruise to fourth straight win ahead of Clasico Nicholas McGee 21st October, 2026 WATCH: Bernardo Silva scores first Real Madrid goal as Los Blancos break Leipzig resistance Nicholas McGee 21st October, 2026 LIVE Real Madrid v RB Leipzig: Commentary, updates, goals and stats Jon Fisher 21st October, 2026 Real Madrid v RB Leipzig: Confirmed line-ups as Los Blancos look to carry momentum into Clasico Nicholas McGee 21st October, 2026 Tip of the Day: Vinicius Jr to star for Real Madrid as part of three-leg acca Jon Fisher 21st October, 2026
