Álvaro Arbeloa has come out strongly in support of Vinícius Júnior, backing the Brazilian star amid his return to top form and recent criticism from sections of the Real Madrid fanbase.
Speaking after a run of impressive performances share by fabrizio romano via their x handle, the Real Madrid interim boss described Vinícius as “one of the best players in the world” and “an incredible guy,” stressing how fortunate the club is to have him.
Arbeloa said he has been watching a “great Vinícius” over the past month and insisted the winger’s value goes far beyond goals and assists.
Álvaro Arbeloa: “I’ve been seeing a great Vini since the day I arrived here. He is one of the best player in the world”. “He is an incredible guy, I’m lucky to have him”.
With some fans recently booing the Brazilian at the Bernabéu, Arbeloa urged unity and reminded supporters of Vinícius’ impact on the club’s biggest nights, pointing to his role in delivering two Champions League titles.
The coach also explained his tactical approach, saying he prefers not to overburden Vinícius or Kylian Mbappé with heavy pressing duties so they can stay sharp and explosive in attacking transitions.
Off the pitch, Vinícius has made his long-term intentions clear. Despite constant links to Saudi Arabia and the Premier League, he has reiterated his desire to remain at Real Madrid for many years, expressing trust in president Florentino Pérez to resolve his contract situation at the right time.
Reports suggest the club wants clarity on his renewal by June 2026, with talks including a potential salary that would place him among the highest earners at the Bernabéu.
The faith shown by Arbeloa was reflected on the pitch in Real Madrid’s emphatic 6–1 Champions League win over Monaco in January. Vinícius produced a man-of-the-match display, scoring a stunning solo goal and providing two assists, while Mbappé added a first-half brace against his former club. After finding the net, Vinícius ran straight to embrace Arbeloa on the touchline a moment the coach later described as a hug “for all of Real Madrid.”
According to Softfootball, that dominant European performance helped ease tensions around the club following Xabi Alonso’s departure, with Vinícius’ resurgence symbolising a renewed sense of belief inside the dressing room.
