Vinicius Jr's Journey at Real Madrid: A Story of Contrasts Approaching Possible Split

Written by Olaleye Oluwadamilola

Vinicius Junior could potentially win the Ballon d’Or this year at the back of a productive 2023/24 campaign with Real Madrid, but coverage of the Brazilian remains contentious and uncomfortable both in Madrid and back home in Brazil.

Like many of his Real Madrid teammates, Vinicius has struggled to hit the ground running this season following a campaign where he played a pivotal role in Los Blancos’ dominance across all competitions. His goal conversion rate has dropped from 25% to 9% compared to the previous season but his involvement in matters relating to the media, giving scathing assessment on Spain and racism, hasn’t a bit declined much to the annoyance of the club hierarchies.

Unwelcome Criticism Of Spain Amidst 2030 World Cup Bid

Vinicius stirred controversy in Spain and at Real Madrid with his comments about Spain potentially losing the right to host the 2030 World Cup if they fail to address their record on racism. Following summer months rife with rumors linking him to a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, there have even been suggestions that certain factions within Los Blancos would consider his departure.

It is unsurprising that Vinicius Junior’s comments about Spain potentially losing the right to host the 2030 World Cup if they fail to address their record on racism have caused a stir, particularly at Real Madrid.

Veteran Dani Carvajal expressed solidarity with his teammate on the issue of racism but disagreed with his colleague’s comments regarding the World Cup. Meanwhile, Madrid Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida falsely accused Vinicius of labeling Spain and Madrid as racist.

Mega Saudi Arabia’s Offer

Vinícius, whose contract with Madrid extends until June 2027, has a €1 billion ($1.1 billion) release clause but has decided to defer any decision on his future until the summer of 2025. Representatives from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund approached Vinícius and Madrid about a potential deal. While no formal offer was presented to the club, an annual salary of up to €350 million was discussed with the player.

Madrid was unwilling to negotiate a fee below Vinícius’ release clause this summer. However, there is optimism that the LaLiga giants might be more open to discussing a reduced fee in 2025, when Vinícius would have only two years remaining on his contract.

The Saudi proposal involved Vinícius playing for Al Ahli and becoming a football ambassador for the country ahead of the 2034 World Cup with Vinícius’ representatives reported to have spoken to Real Madrid that they are not interested in renewing his contract, as the player desires time to consider his next move during this season.

The proposed Saudi deal would have made Vinícius the highest-paid athlete in sports.

A Potential Real Madrid Exit?

Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez, among other club officials are increasingly displeased with his comments and his overall attitude especially as Pérez plans to host the World Cup final at the Santiago Bernabeu. The last thing he wants is for that opportunity to be taken away and knowing about the lure of the Saudi Arabia offer, it is said that he’s considering a potential business with the Gulf nation.

This and many more has made Los Blancos more open to the idea of selling Vinicius due to his public image. Real Madrid believe that Vinicius does not embody the image they want to project to the world. Additionally, Vinicius’ on-field attitude has been a source of frustration, leading teammates to intervene and request improvements after a match against Las Palmas in August.

If Saudi Arabia is willing to make an official substantial offer, Real Madrid might consider selling Vinicius. In that case, they would explore the possibility of signing Nico Williams, a Barcelona target with a €58 million release clause according to multiple reports.

It would be a significant surprise if Los Blancos were open to part ways with him. While Vinicius may face constant criticism in Spain, he is increasingly recognized globally as a leading figure in the fight against racism in football. Moreover, he was undoubtedly one of their best players last season.

The Brazilian international has won two Champions Leagues and three LaLiga titles since joining Madrid in 2018.

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