Hubbry Logo
Vinícius JúniorVinícius JúniorMain
Open search
Vinícius Júnior
Community hub
Vinícius Júnior
logo
13 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Vinícius Júnior
Vinícius Júnior
Vinícius Júnior
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Vinícius José Paixão de Oliveira Júnior (Brazilian Portuguese: [viˈnisi.uz ʒoˈzɛ pajˈʃɐ̃w dʒi oliˈvejɾɐ ˈʒuni.oʁ]; born 12 July 2000), commonly known as Vinícius Júnior or Vini Jr., is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a forward for La Liga club Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. Considered one of the best players in the world, he is known for his pace, technique and dribbling ability.[3]

Key Information

Born in São Gonçalo, Vinícius began his professional career at Flamengo, where he made his senior debut in 2017, at age 16. A few weeks later, Vinícius was the subject of a transfer to La Liga club Real Madrid, for whom he signed in a £38 million deal, which was a national record for a player under 18.[4] The transfer was made effective after his 18th birthday, with Vinícius debuting for the club in 2018–19. Over the following seasons, Vinícius established himself as a prominent member in Real Madrid's squad, helping the club win two La Liga–Champions League doubles, scoring the winning goal in the 2022 final, as well as the second goal in the 2024 final, being named the tournament's Player of the Season in 2024.[5][6][7] Vinícius was included in the FIFPRO World XI in 2023 and 2024, and was named The Best FIFA Men's Player in 2024.[8] He also finished runner-up in the 2024 Ballon d'Or voting.

At his youth stage for Brazil, Vinícius was a key player in the victory at the 2015 South American U-15 Championship and 2017 South American U-17 Championship, finishing as leading goalscorer in the latter competition. He made his senior debut in 2021 and helped his nation to a runner-up finish at the 2021 Copa América, also representing Brazil at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and the 2024 Copa América in the United States.

Club career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

His footballing career began in 2006, when his father took him to the branch offices of Flamengo, in the neighborhood of Mutuá, in São Gonçalo where he lived. His club document described him as a left-back.

Hailing from a poor Catholic family,[9] Vinícius went to live in Abolição with his uncle, Ulisses, to shorten the distance to Ninho do Urubu (the "Vultures' Nest"). He started to receive financial aid from Flamengo as well as aid from entrepreneurs.[10]

Between 2007 and 2010, Vinícius attended futsal classes at Flamengo's school in São Gonçalo at the Canto do Rio, a famous club located in the centre of Niterói. Flamengo noted his potential and he decided he wanted to play football, not futsal. In August 2010, Vinícius had a trial to play for the Flamengo youth team, and he accepted an invitation to play for their football team.[11] Before, in 2009, when Vinícius was nine, he took a futsal trial for Flamengo, he was asked to come back the following year.[citation needed]

Flamengo

[edit]
Vinícius playing for Flamengo in 2018

Vinícius debuted for Flamengo on 13 May 2017 as an 82nd-minute substitute in a Brazilian Série A 1–1 draw against Atlético Mineiro.[12][13] Two days later he extended his contract with the club from 2019 until 2022, with a significant salary increase and a buyout clause increase from €30 million to €45 million.[14] This contract renewal was reported as being part of the transfer process of Vinícius to Real Madrid, an agreement reached between the two clubs in Gávea that week with an obligation to sell the young player in July 2018.[15]

On 10 August 2017, Vinícius scored the first professional goal of his career in a Copa Sudamericana second round leg 2 match against Palestino in a 5–0 win for Flamengo. He scored one goal, 30 seconds after being substituted on in the 72nd minute. On 19 August, he scored his first Brazilian Série A goals for Flamengo, in a 2–0 win against Atlético Goianiense.[16][17][18][19][20][excessive citations]

Real Madrid

[edit]

On 23 May 2017, La Liga club Real Madrid signed a contract to acquire Vinícius, effective after his 18th birthday on 12 July 2018 (as age 18 is the minimum age for international transfer).[21] He transferred for a reported fee of €46 million, which was at the time, the second most expensive sale of a player in the history of Brazilian football (behind only Neymar), the largest amount received by a Brazilian club for a transfer, and the highest amount ever paid by a club for a footballer under the age of 19.[22][23] He was originally scheduled to return to Brazil on loan in July 2018.[21]

2018–21: Development and adaptation to Spain

[edit]

On 20 July 2018, he was officially presented as a Real Madrid player.[24] He was issued squad number 28.[25] He made his debut on 29 September, coming in as an 87th-minute substitute in a goalless draw against Atlético Madrid.[26] Vinícius made his first start on 31 October in a 4–0 Copa del Rey away victory against Melilla,[27] contributing with assists for both Marco Asensio and Álvaro Odriozola in what Marca recognised as a Man of the Match performance.[25] He scored his first goal on 3 November 10 minutes after coming on as a substitute in a 2–0 victory against Real Valladolid.[28] He scored four goals between his debut on 29 September and 7 February 2019.[29] On 6 March, he tore a ligament during a loss to Ajax, which ended his season.[30]

On 11 December 2019, he scored his first UEFA Champions League goal in a 3–1 away win over Club Brugge in the 2019–20 season.[31] On 1 March 2020, he scored the first goal in a 2–0 win for Real in El Clásico against Barcelona.[32] He made 29 appearances during the league season, while scoring three goals, as Real Madrid won the 2019–20 La Liga.[33]

On 6 April 2021, Vinícius scored two goals in a 3–1 win against Liverpool in the first leg of the 2020–21 UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.[34] Real Madrid would advance to the semi-finals where they lost to eventual champions Chelsea.[35]

2021–22: Breakthrough, second league title, and UEFA Champions League victory

[edit]
Vinícius Jr. in a trophy presentation ceremony at Virgin of Almudena in 2022

Vinícius started the 2021–22 season by scoring Real Madrid's fourth goal in a 4–1 away victory over Alavés on the opening day of the La Liga campaign.[36] On 22 August, he scored a brace in a 3–3 draw against Levante coming off the bench, which earned him a first-team place, ahead of Eden Hazard.[37] On 30 October, he scored twice as Real Madrid won 2–1 at Elche to go top of the La Liga table.[38] The goals were his sixth and seventh of the league season and his eighth and ninth overall, surpassing his total output of six goals in all competitions during the 2020–21 season in just 14 matches.[38] On 12 May 2022, he scored his first hat-trick for Real Madrid in a 6–0 victory over Levante.[39]

On 28 May, he scored the only goal in a 1–0 win over Liverpool in the Champions League final to clinch Madrid their record 14th UEFA Champions League title.[40] Vinícius ended the 2021–22 season as Real Madrid's second-best goalscorer with 22 goals in all competitions, only behind his attacking partner Karim Benzema.[41] For his performances Vinícius was named the inaugural Champions League young player of the season[42] and included in the 2021–22 UEFA Champions League team of the season.[43]

2022–23: Inheritance of the No. 7 shirt and Club World Cup title

[edit]

On 11 February, Real Madrid defeated Al-Hilal 5–3 in the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup final as Vinícius scored a brace to claim the tournament's best player award and his second Club World Cup title.[44] On 21 February 2023, Vinícius scored two first-half goals to power Real Madrid's 5–2 comeback win at Anfield against Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League knockout stage round of 16 tie.[45][46]

On 9 May 2023, Vinícius made a significant contribution to Real Madrid's performance in the first leg of the semi-final against Manchester City, scoring a remarkable long-range goal in the 36th minute.[47] Alongside teammates Rodrygo and Karim Benzema, he created numerous opportunities, showcasing Real Madrid's counter-attacking prowess against Manchester City's dominant possession.[48] The match ultimately ended in a 1–1 draw.[49] However, in the second leg of the semi-final, Real Madrid suffered a crushing 4–0 defeat against City, thereby ending their campaign for the Champions League title.[50][51] He was selected in the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League team of the tournament.[52]

In the aftermath of Hazard's departure, Real Madrid confirmed that Vinícius, who previously wore the No. 20 shirt, would be sporting the club's iconic No. 7 jersey, once worn by Cristiano Ronaldo and Raúl, from 2023–24 season onwards.[53][54]

2023–24: Third La Liga title, Second Champions League trophy, and becoming club talisman

[edit]

On 19 August 2023, Vinícius scored the decisive goal in a La Liga match against Almería, contributing to Real Madrid's victory alongside teammate Jude Bellingham, who netted the previous two goals.[55] On 25 August 2023, Vinícius sustained an injury to his right biceps femoris muscle during a league match against Celta, a game that Real Madrid ultimately won 1–0.[56][57] On 27 September 2023, Vinícius made his return to play in a league fixture against Las Palmas after recovering from his injury.[58] On 3 October, he got his first Champions League goal of the season, netting the 1–1 equaliser in Madrid's away game against Napoli, which eventually ended in a 3–2 win.[59]

Real Madrid announced on 31 October 2023 that they had extended Vinícius' contract until 30 June 2027.[60][61] On 14 January 2024, he scored a hat-trick in a 4–1 victory over Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final.[62] Throughout the month of March, Vinícius went on a rich goalscoring run, scoring six goals in four matches across all competitions, including a brace against Valencia at Mestalla Stadium, and the tie winning goal against RB Leipzig in the Champions League last 16 to help Real Madrid advance to the quarter-finals.[63] On 21 April, he scored another goal against Barcelona in Real Madrid's 3–2 home win to help Los Blancos virtually seal the league title. On 30 April, he netted a brace in a 2–2 away draw against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final first leg; hence, he managed to score at that round for the third consecutive season, in addition to reaching at least 20 goals in all competitions for the third straight season.[64] He then followed up this performance with another man of the match performance against Bayern in the second leg, helping Real Madrid win 2–1 and advance to the final.

On 1 June, Vinícius scored in Real Madrid's 2–0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the 2024 UEFA Champions League Final, winning his second trophy in the competition.[65] Aged 23 years and 325 days, he became the youngest player to score in two Champions League finals, beating Lionel Messi's record by thirteen days.[66] Two days later, Vinícius was named the UEFA Champions League Player of the Season, registering six goals and five assists in Madrid's trophy-winning campaign.[67]

2024–25: Best FIFA Men's Player and 100th goal for Real Madrid

[edit]

On 22 October 2024, Vinícius scored his first continental hat-trick in a 5–2 comeback win against Borussia Dortmund.[68] He finished second in the 2024 Ballon d'Or behind Rodri.[69] On 17 December, Vinícius was named The Best FIFA Men's Player for 2024.[70] The following day, he assisted Kylian Mbappé's opener and converted a penalty in a 3–0 final win over Pachuca, as Madrid were crowned the inaugural FIFA Intercontinental Cup champions. With this performance, Vinícius received the Player of the Tournament and Golden Ball awards.[71] On 22 January 2025, Vinícius scored his 100th and 101st goals for Real Madrid in a 5–1 Champions League win over Red Bull Salzburg, becoming the 23rd player to achieve this feat for the club.[72] On 26 February, he took to the pitch at the Reale Arena wearing Real Madrid's captain armband for the first time in his career, as the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals against Real Sociedad ended 1–0 in the favor of Los Blancos.[73]

International career

[edit]

2015–2019: Success at youth level

[edit]

On 30 October 2015, Vinícius was called up for Brazil by coach Guilherme Dalla Déa for the South American U-15 Championship. Vinícius and Brazil won the U-15 title and he was the 2nd top-scorer of the tournament with seven goals. He was named player of the tournament and continued to perform which helped him convince Flamengo to sign him by the age of 16.[74] On 24 June 2016, Vinícius was called up for a friendly against Chile U-17 and scored two goals and provided two assists in the 4–2 victory.

In March 2017, Vinícius debuted in the South American U-17 Championship for Brazil with a goal in a 3–0 victory over Peru.[75] In the final stage, he scored two goals in a 3–0 win over Ecuador and two goals in a 3–0 victory over Colombia, securing Brazil's place in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup in India, where Brazil (without Vinícius) eventually would finish third.[76][77][78] After leading Brazil to win the South American U-17 Championship, he was named the tournament's best player and was top goal-scorer with seven goals.[79]

2019–2022: Senior and World Cup debuts

[edit]
Vinicius with Brazil in 2022 FIFA World Cup group stage match against Serbia

On 28 February 2019, Vinícius was called up to the Brazil national team for the first time for friendlies against Panama and the Czech Republic.[80] However, he suffered an injury while playing for Real Madrid, and David Neres was called up in his place in March.[81] In May, he was excluded from Brazil's final 23-man squad for the 2019 Copa América by manager Tite.[82] The same year on 10 September, he debuted as a 72nd-minute substitute in Brazil's 1–0 defeat against Peru.[83]

Vinícius was named in Brazil's 2021 Copa América squad by Tite on 9 June 2021, which was held on home soil.[84] He made a substitute appearance in his country's 1–0 defeat against rivals Argentina in the final on 10 July.[85]

On 24 March 2022, Vinícius scored his debut goal for the national team, in a 4–0 home victory against Chile in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification match at the Maracanã Stadium.[86] On 7 November 2022, Vinícius was named in the Brazil squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup by Tite.[87] In the opening group match against Serbia on 24 November, he set-up Richarlison's second goal to help Brazil to a 2–0 victory.[88] He scored his first FIFA World Cup goal in a 4–1 victory against South Korea in the round of 16 on 5 December, also setting up Lucas Paquetá's goal, helping Brazil qualify for the quarter-finals,[89] where they were eliminated by Croatia four days later following a 4–2 penalty shoot-out loss after a 1–1 draw.[90]

On 26 March 2024, Vinícius served as captain of the national team for the first time in a friendly match against Spain at the Santiago Bernabéu, his club's home ground.[91] At the 2024 Copa América, Vinícius scored his first two goals in the tournament in Brazil's second group match, a 4–1 win against Paraguay,[92] also picking up a yellow card; he picked up another booking in his nation's final group match, a 1–1 draw against Colombia, which ruled him out of the quarter-finals. In his absence, Brazil were eliminated following a 4–2 penalty shoot-out defeat after a goalless draw against Uruguay.[93][94]

Style of play and reception

[edit]
Vinícius playing for Real Madrid in 2018

Shortly after his arrival at Real Madrid in July 2018, ESPN journalist Dermot Corrigan described Vinícius as a "zippy left winger or second striker".[95] A versatile player, although he is usually deployed on the left flank, he is capable of playing anywhere along the front line, and has also been used on the right or in the centre.[96] Possessing explosive acceleration, and excellent pace, agility, balance, technique, flair, dribbling skills, and close control at speed, as well as significant power, physical strength, and trickery on the ball, despite his slender build,[97][98][99][100][101][102][excessive citations] he is known for his movement, energy, ability to run at defences, change direction quickly, and beat opponents in one on one situations while in possession of the ball.[100][103][104][105][excessive citations]

Regarded as a promising young player,[97][98][106] he is considered to be a dynamic, intelligent, hard-working, and nimble winger, with a low centre of gravity, as well as impressive passing and awareness. Moreover, he is known in for his eye for the final ball, and ability to provide assists to teammates, which make him an effective playmaker. Although he is also capable of scoring goals himself,[97][99][102] his shooting and goalscoring were initially cited by pundits as areas in need of improvement,[99][104] as his lack of end product was often a source of criticism in the media in his first few seasons at Real Madrid.[41][107] In June 2017, Vinícius appeared at 39th place on The Telegraph's list of the best under-21 players in the world. He was the only player playing in South America at the time to appear on the list.[108] In November 2018, former Argentina international frontman José Luis Calderón credited Vinícius' "general enthusiasm, his ability to make things happen, the joy and good vibrations he transmits, his speed, the fact he's different and the fact he's daring. To sum up, he has a spark that could be used by a team that has been plain in recent matches".[109] In his youth with Flamengo, he was criticised, however, by several football figures, fans, and the press for "doing too many tricks", and for "[t]oo much individualism, not enough teamwork".[110]

During the 2021–22 season, Vinícius had a breakthrough season with Real Madrid, and his goal scoring and assist output increased dramatically, enabling him to form an effective offensive partnership from the left wing with striker Karim Benzema.[111] Regarding his change in form, Vinícus commented in December 2021: "I think I've improved in many things, but above all in my calmness in my play, I'm doing things with more tranquillity and more quality too."[112] The club's manager Carlo Ancelotti also praised him for his defensive work-rate and positioning, in addition to his creative abilities[113] and talent, noting that he was able to improve upon his tactical knowledge and physical condition throughout the course of the season,[41] as well as his finishing.[110] His performances led the Spanish press to compare him to compatriot Neymar.[114] Following his goal in Real Madrid's victory in the 2022 Champions League final, Neymar himself described Vinícius as "the best player in the world."[115] Later that month, Ed McCambridge of FourFourTwo ranked Vinícius as the second–best left winger in the world.[116] Vinícius was also used in a free role as a left-sided forward or striker in a 4–3–1–2 formation during the 2023–24 season by manager Carlo Ancelotti; in this position, although he operated in more central areas, he was still given the freedom to move out wide or switch positions and link-up with Rodrygo on the other side of the pitch.[117]

During his spell at Real Madrid, Vinícius has been criticized for his perceived lack of discipline and sportsmanship on the field.[118][119][120] His behavior has resulted in him often receiving bookings for verbal dissent to referees and physical confrontations with opposing players.[121][122] Following an incident in March 2024 in which he pushed RB Leipzig player Willi Orbán in the neck,[123] Vinícius was criticized by former Real Madrid player Predrag Mijatović, who said that if Vinícius does not "calm down", he "will never become a legendary player, regardless of the good he does in terms of football."[124] Vinícius has also been criticized for his provocative behavior and celebrations,[125] with former Brazil coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo claiming that Vinícius provokes a lot of the treatment he receives on the field.[119][126][127] Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted in March 2024 that Vinícius should "control himself a little better",[128] with reports from SPORT claiming that Real Madrid believed Vinícius to be hurting the club's image.[118][129]

In May 2025, Netflix released a documentary film titled Vini Jr, directed by Emílio Domingos and Andrucha Waddington. The film chronicles his life and career, including his response to racism on and off the pitch.[130]

Activism

[edit]

Anti-racism activism

[edit]

In some incidents in 2023, Vinícius was subjected to racist slurs and chants from football fans in Spain, including an effigy of him being hanged from a bridge in Madrid.[131][132] On 23 May 2023, four men were arrested by the Spanish Police in connection with the effigy.[133] In response, Vinícius condemned La Liga for what he perceived as normalization of racism, and advocated for more stringent measures and penalties to combat racist behaviour.[134] On 22 May 2023, Real Madrid released an official statement strongly condemning the racist abuse against Vinícius, viewing it as a direct attack on the democratic coexistence model of Spain; the club reported the incident as a "hate crime" to the Attorney General's Office, reserving its right to act as a private prosecutor in any ensuing proceedings.[135] On 15 June 2023, Vinícius was selected by FIFA president Gianni Infantino to lead a special FIFA anti-racism committee composed of players.[136][137]

Public response

[edit]

Certain experts believe the global outrage and outpouring of support for Vinícius following his stand against racism could mark a turning point in the fight against racism in football and Spain in general.[138] Guy Hedgecoe of BBC News said the issue has transcended the borders of Spain and of sport, as public figures from around the world are acknowledging that for which he stands.[139] Brazilian president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva condemned racism and expressed his solidarity towards Vinícius while urging FIFA and other responsible football bodies to take the strongest actions possible.[140] Brazil's iconic Christ the Redeemer statue switched off its lights in a show of support for Vinícius following racial slurs from Valencia fans at the Mestalla Stadium in Spain.[141] Sean Gregory, writing for Time asserted: "The effects of racist abuse in the world’s most popular game are felt far beyond the stadium walls, that the ugliness persists in 2023 also on full, terrible display, at stadiums around the world is a forever stain on the so-called beautiful game."[142] In Rio de Janeiro, representatives of more than 150 activist groups and non-profits delivered a letter to Spain's consulate, demanding an investigation into the league and its president.[143] Flávio Dino, Brazil's minister of justice threatened Spain with applying the principle of extraterritoriality over Vinícius' case.[144] Various sporting figures from around the world, including seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, coaches Xavi and Carlo Ancelotti, pundit Rio Ferdinand, the Real Madrid Femenino and Real Madrid Baloncesto teams, as well as footballers Didier Drogba, Kylian Mbappé, Iñaki Williams, Raphinha, Ronaldo, Neymar, and Rafael Leão, offered him praises and support.[145][146] Anti-racism legislations called "Vini Jr. laws" were approved in the Brazilian states Rio de Janeiro and Rio Grande do Sul, which will see sporting events stopped or suspended in the event of racist conduct.[147][148] He also received awards from Rio's legislative assembly and city council and his footprints were added to the stadium's walk of fame, beside those of Brazilian greats such as Pelé, Garrincha and Ronaldo.[149] Vinícius received the Sócrates Award at the 2023 Ballon d'Or ceremony for his humanitarian projects and fight against racism.[150][151]

Education for all

[edit]

In 2021, he founded the Instituto Vini Jr., an organisation to facilitate access to school for Brazilian children and teenagers from disadvantaged neighborhoods.[152] In 2023, he was awarded the Sócrates Award.[153] In 2024, UNESCO appointed Vinícius Goodwill Ambassador for Education for All. He is the second footballer after Pelé to become a UNESCO ambassador.[154]

Personal life

[edit]

Vinícius is a Roman Catholic.[155] He runs a charitable institute in Rio – Instituto Vini Jr – which aims to use technology and sport to educate young Brazilians and, ultimately, alleviate some of the education related inequality in the country.[156][157][158] In November 2024, he received his genetic results from African Ancestry, Inc. and learned that his maternal lineage was traced to Tikar people of Cameroon. The Confederation of Brazilian Football (CBF) presented him with the certificate in front of a stadium full of supporters.[159] He is also an owner of F.C. Alverca, who play in Primeira Liga in Portugal.

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
As of match played 26 October 2025[160]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League National cup[a] Continental Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Flamengo 2017 Série A 25 3 4 0 7[b] 1 1[c] 0 37 4
2018 Série A 12 4 2 0 5[d] 2 13[e] 4 32 10
Total 37 7 6 0 12 3 14 4 69 14
Real Madrid Castilla 2018–19 Segunda División B 5 4 — — — 5 4
Real Madrid 2018–19 La Liga 18 2 8 2 4[f] 0 1[g] 0 31 4
2019–20 La Liga 29 3 3 1 5[f] 1 1[h] 0 38 5
2020–21 La Liga 35 3 1 0 12[f] 3 1[h] 0 49 6
2021–22 La Liga 35 17 2 0 13[f] 4 2[h] 1 52 22
2022–23 La Liga 33 10 5 3 12[f] 7 5[i] 3 55 23
2023–24 La Liga 26 15 1 0 10[f] 6 2[h] 3 39 24
2024–25 La Liga 30 11 6 1 12[f] 8 10[j] 2 58 22
2025–26 La Liga 10 5 0 0 3[f] 0 0 0 13 5
Total 216 66 26 7 71 29 22 9 336 111
Career total 258 77 32 7 83 32 36 13 410 129
  1. ^ Includes Copa do Brasil, Copa del Rey
  2. ^ Appearances in Copa Sudamericana
  3. ^ Appearance in Primeira Liga
  4. ^ Appearances in Copa Libertadores
  5. ^ Appearances in Campeonato Carioca
  6. ^ a b c d e f g h Appearances in UEFA Champions League
  7. ^ Appearance in FIFA Club World Cup
  8. ^ a b c d Appearance(s) in Supercopa de España
  9. ^ Two appearances in Supercopa de España, one appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances and three goals in FIFA Club World Cup
  10. ^ Two appearances in Supercopa de España, one appearance in UEFA Super Cup, one appearance and one goal in FIFA Intercontinental Cup, six appearances and one goal in FIFA Club World Cup

International

[edit]
As of match played 14 October 2025[161]
Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team Year Apps Goals
Brazil 2019 1 0
2021 8 0
2022 11 2
2023 6 1
2024 11 2
2025 6 3
Total 43 8
As of match played 14 October 2025
Scores and results list Brazil's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Vinicius goal.
List of international goals scored by Vinícius Júnior
No. Date Venue Cap Opponent Score Result Competition
1 24 March 2022 Estádio do Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 12  Chile 2–0 4–0 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification
2 5 December 2022 Stadium 974, Doha, Qatar 19  South Korea 1–0 4–1 2022 FIFA World Cup
3 17 June 2023 RCDE Stadium, Barcelona, Spain 22  Guinea 4–1 4–1 Friendly
4 28 June 2024 Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, United States 32  Paraguay 1–0 4–1 2024 Copa América
5 3–0
6 20 March 2025 Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha, Brasília, Brazil 38  Colombia 2–1 2–1 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification
7 10 June 2025 Neo Química Arena, São Paulo, Brazil 41  Paraguay 1–0 1–0 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification
8 10 October 2025 Seoul World Cup Stadium, Seoul, South Korea 42  South Korea 5–0 5–0 Friendly

Honours

[edit]

Real Madrid

Brazil U15

Brazil U17

Brazil

Individual

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Vinícius Júnior

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Vinícius Paixão de Oliveira Júnior (born 12 July 2000), known as Vinícius Júnior, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a left winger for Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. Originating from São Gonçalo in Rio de Janeiro, he launched his senior career with Flamengo in 2017 at age 16, scoring on debut and helping secure the and titles before his €45 million transfer to Real Madrid in 2018. At Real Madrid, Vinícius has emerged as a pivotal attacker, renowned for his explosive pace, dribbling prowess, and clutch performances, amassing over 100 goals and contributing to major triumphs including two titles (2022, 2024), where he scored the decisive goal in the 2022 final, two championships, two FIFA Club World Cups, and earning the 2024 award. Internationally, he has represented Brazil since 2019, participating in the and winning the 2024 Copa América, though the team fell short of major tournament victory. His career has been punctuated by repeated encounters with racist abuse from spectators in Spanish stadiums, including monkey chants and insults documented in over a dozen incidents since 2019, leading to multiple arrests, court convictions with prison sentences, and ongoing investigations by authorities.

Early life

Childhood in Rio de Janeiro

Vinícius José Paixão de Oliveira Júnior was born on 12 July 2000 in São Gonçalo, a working-class municipality north of Rio de Janeiro characterized by high rates, informal settlements, and elevated levels including gang-related . Raised in a low-income , he navigated early life amid these harsh realities, where limited resources and exposure to urban peril shaped a environment demanding self-reliance for survival and opportunity. From childhood, Vinícius cultivated his football abilities through barefoot street games in São Gonçalo's potholed alleys, a practice common in the region's underprivileged communities that emphasized and endurance over structured coaching. These informal sessions, often against older opponents, fostered raw and skills while providing a constructive outlet amid the surrounding threats of and instability, which he later described as being "close to and every day." Football thus functioned as a practical escape mechanism, channeling energy away from the favela-adjacent dangers toward skill-building with tangible potential for socioeconomic mobility. His family's commitment underscored the causal role of in overcoming barriers; lacking funds for travel to club tryouts, his parents sold household items to afford bus fares for sessions at Flamengo's youth academy around age 10. This determination proved pivotal after an initial rejection from Flamengo, where officials recommended he return in a year due to his youth, prompting a brief consideration of before persistence in outdoor football reaffirmed his path—highlighting resilience derived from environmental pressures rather than untested innate superiority alone.

Entry into professional football academies

Vinícius Júnior began his organized football involvement at age six in 2006, when his father enrolled him in the Escolinha de Flamengo, a local developmental branch affiliated with Clube de Regatas do Flamengo in São Gonçalo, Rio de Janeiro. There, he was identified by Carlos Eduardo Abrantes, the director of the program, who recognized his early potential and facilitated his progression through initial training sessions focused on basic skills and physical conditioning. This entry point served as an amateur pathway, emphasizing grassroots talent identification amid local tournaments and community play, before formal elevated him to the club's main youth structure. By age 10 in 2010, following a successful , Júnior transitioned to Flamengo's , marking his structured entry into developmental football. In the , he progressed through age-group teams, including under-13 and under-17 squads, where coaches noted his precocious , speed, and ability to outperform peers up to three years older, laying foundations in technical proficiency, tactical awareness, and endurance training regimens typical of Brazilian club systems. performances included consistent contributions in internal matches and regional youth leagues, honing his winger role through daily sessions that integrated ball control drills, positional play, and competitive simulations. In May 2017, at age 16, Júnior signed his first professional contract with Flamengo, a milestone that formalized his academy pathway while including provisions for future transfer, amid growing external interest. This period involved navigating competitive selection within crowded youth ranks and adapting to intensified physical demands, though specific injury records remain undocumented in club disclosures; his development emphasized resilience against positional competition, culminating in readiness for senior integration.

Club career

Flamengo


Vinícius Júnior joined CR Flamengo's youth academy in 2005 at the age of five, progressing through its ranks after initial training between 2007 and 2010. The academy, renowned for developing talents like Zico and Adriano, honed his dribbling and speed, with Vinícius often playing in older age groups to accelerate his maturation. By age 16, he had become a standout prospect, attracting interest from European clubs despite occasional criticism from coaches regarding his decision-making. Vinícius made his senior debut for Flamengo on 13 May 2017, substituting in a match against Atlético Mineiro at the age of 16 years and 306 days. His first arrived on 10 August 2017, during a 5–0 win over Palestino, marking a rapid ascent amid high expectations. Over the subsequent year, he featured regularly, contributing to Flamengo's attack with his pace and flair on the left wing. In total, Vinícius recorded 14 goals and 4 assists across 69 senior appearances for Flamengo from May 2017 to July 2018, spanning Série A, , and continental competitions. His contributions helped secure the 2018 Copa Guanabara, the first phase of the , with a 2–0 final victory over Boavista on 18 February 2018. Real Madrid had agreed to his transfer in May 2017 for €45 million, but Flamengo retained him for one more season to aid his development before his departure to .

Youth development

Vinícius Júnior entered Flamengo's youth academy at age 10 in 2010, where his technical ability and flair distinguished him from peers. Youth coaches observed his precocious talent, noting he outperformed players up to three years older during training sessions. In the academy system, he primarily operated as a left winger, honing dribbling skills and pace through competitive youth matches. His breakthrough came in the in , where he scored 7 goals across 7 matches for , earning the top scorer accolade and aiding the team's title win. This performance, including a debut goal in a 3–0 group stage victory over on 25 2017, showcased his goal-scoring threat and one-on-one prowess from the flank. Analysts highlighted his explosive acceleration and close control in tournament footage, marking maturation in transitioning academy drills to high-stakes competition. Flamengo responded to burgeoning European interest by extending his youth contract on 16 May 2017 until 2022, with a salary increase and raised from €30 million to €45 million. This move amplified hype around the 16-year-old, positioning him as Flamengo's premier academy prospect amid rumors of transfers to clubs like Real Madrid.

Senior debut and domestic success

Vinícius Júnior made his senior debut for Flamengo on 13 May 2017, entering as an 80th-minute substitute in a 1–1 draw against Atlético Mineiro at the . Over the course of his tenure, which spanned from mid-2017 until his departure at the end of 2018, he recorded 14 goals and 5 assists in 69 appearances across all competitions, demonstrating explosive pace, dribbling ability, and direct contributions to the attack. In domestic play, Vinícius contributed to Flamengo's early 2018 success by helping secure the Taça Guanabara, the first phase of the , with the team defeating Boavista 2–0 in the decisive match on 18 February; he featured in several group stage and knockout fixtures, scoring key goals that underscored his emerging role on the left flank. His partnership with right-sided winger Bruno Henrique proved effective, as their complementary styles—Vinícius's inward cuts and Henrique's overlapping runs—enhanced Flamengo's width and crossing volume, leading to increased scoring opportunities in transitional phases. Though Flamengo achieved a domestic double in 2019 with the Campeonato Carioca and Copa Libertadores titles following his exit, Vinícius's prior performances laid groundwork for the squad's attacking evolution under coach Jorge Jesus, with his 2018 output including multiple goals in state and league fixtures that boosted team confidence ahead of continental campaigns.

Real Madrid

2018–20: Transfer, adaptation, and initial struggles

Real Madrid agreed to sign Vinícius Júnior from Flamengo in May 2017 for a reported €45 million fee, with the transfer becoming effective on 12 July 2018 upon his 18th birthday; as part of the deal, he remained on loan at Flamengo for the remainder of the 2018 season. He joined Real Madrid in January 2019, arriving amid the club's transitional period following a disappointing 2018–19 season that saw the dismissal of manager Julen Lopetegui and the appointment of interim coach Santiago Solari. Under Solari, Vinícius made his competitive debut on 3 January 2019 in a Copa del Rey match against Cultural Leonesa, scoring once and assisting another in a 6–1 victory, though his overall minutes remained limited to substitute appearances totaling around 300 across all competitions by season's end. Zinedine Zidane's return as manager in March 2019 offered Vinícius further opportunities, but he struggled for consistent starting roles amid competition from established wingers like Gareth Bale and competition for places in a squad undergoing post-Cristiano Ronaldo rebuild. In the 2019–20 La Liga season, he featured in 25 matches, accumulating 1,158 minutes, but managed only 2 goals and 3 assists, often criticized for raw decision-making, poor finishing efficiency, and inconsistency in high-pressure scenarios. These performances reflected broader adaptation challenges, including adjusting to the tactical demands and physical intensity of European football, as evidenced by his lower goal conversion rate compared to his prolific Flamengo stint (14 goals in 49 appearances across 2018). Vinícius faced personal hurdles in relocating from at a young age, including language barriers—initially relying on Portuguese-Spanish similarities but requiring time to fully integrate—and reported , which he later reflected on as testing his resilience during early interviews with Brazilian media. These factors contributed to a gradual integration curve, with Zidane publicly defending his potential amid loan rumors in late , emphasizing patience in his development despite sporadic bench roles and the club's shifting priorities under ongoing squad transitions.

2021–23: Breakthrough seasons, major trophies, and jersey inheritance

In the 2021–22 season, Vinícius Júnior established himself as a pivotal attacker for Real Madrid, contributing 17 goals and 10 assists across 35 matches. His pace and dribbling prowess were instrumental in Real Madrid's successful campaigns, clinching the title on 30 April 2022 after a 4–0 victory over Espanyol that confirmed their 35th domestic championship. In the , Vinícius scored decisive goals, including the match-winner in the final on 28 May 2022, securing a 1–0 triumph over at the and Real Madrid's 14th European Cup. This performance marked his breakthrough, with enhanced decision-making in the final third under Carlo Ancelotti's guidance, transforming him from a peripheral squad player into a primary offensive threat. Ancelotti's tactical adjustments emphasized Vinícius's exploitation of wide spaces while improving his composure near , evidenced by a shift toward higher conversion rates on created chances. Real Madrid also captured the earlier that year, completing a treble of major honors. Entering the 2022–23 season, Vinícius maintained his momentum, tallying 19 combined goals and assists in while leading Europe's top five leagues with 113 successful dribbles, showcasing his elite ball-carrying ability. Real Madrid extended their success with a 5–3 victory over Al-Hilal in the final on 11 February 2023, their fifth title in the competition, alongside the and . Following Eden Hazard's departure in June 2023, Vinícius inherited the storied No. 7 jersey, previously synonymous with Cristiano Ronaldo's tenure at the club from 2009 to 2018, symbolizing his ascension as a flagship winger. This period underscored his maturation into a trophy-winning contributor, blending explosive individuality with collective impact.

2023–25: Peak achievements, FIFA award, and milestone goals

In the 2023–24 season, Vinícius Júnior contributed significantly to Real Madrid's conquest of —their 36th title—and the —their 15th European Cup—along with the and Spanish Super Cup. He recorded 24 goals and 11 assists across 39 club appearances, including the decisive second goal in the Champions League final against on 1 June 2024, securing a 2–0 victory after Dani Carvajal's opener. These performances marked his third title and second Champions League triumph with the club, underscoring his evolution into a pivotal attacker following Karim Benzema's departure in 2023. Vinícius Júnior's form positioned him as Real Madrid's primary talisman, frequently initiating goal chains in high-stakes matches through his dribbling and interplay with teammates like Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo. In La Liga, he tallied 15 goals and 6 assists in 26 matches, often exploiting defenses on the left flank to create scoring opportunities. His contributions extended to clutch moments, such as assists in the Spanish Super Cup final and key goals against rivals Barcelona, reinforcing his role in the team's domestic and European dominance. On 17 December 2024, Vinícius Júnior was awarded for 2024, edging out Manchester City's Rodri by five votes in a tally determined by national team coaches, captains, journalists, and fans. The honor recognized his instrumental role in Real Madrid's quadruple success that year, including the Intercontinental Cup. Early in the 2024–25 season, Vinícius Júnior reached his 100th goal for Real Madrid on 22 January 2025, scoring in a 5–1 Champions League win over Red Bull , achieving the milestone in his 291st appearance for the club. This landmark highlighted his sustained output as the team's leading forward, with 57 of those goals in alone across 191 matches.

2025–present: Form dips, disciplinary evolution, and recent controversies

Vinícius Júnior's contract with Real Madrid expires in June 2027, with an estimated gross base annual salary of €25 million for the 2025–26 season, additional bonuses up to €12.5 million totaling €37.5 million gross, and a net annual salary of approximately €18 million; no confirmed renewal has increased these figures. In the early months of 2025, Vinícius Júnior's form declined markedly from his prior peaks, coinciding with Real Madrid's underwhelming 2024–25 campaign that contributed to his fall to 16th in the 2025 rankings, a sharp drop from his second-place finish the previous year. This decline included an extended goal drought spanning 15 matches across competitions since his last goal against Villarreal on 4 October 2025, with zero goals in 11 La Liga games and 6 UEFA Champions League games. This regression was quantified by subpar statistics, including zero goals in league play from mid-June onward and reduced output overall, with critiques highlighting a lack of consistency and mental fatigue as underlying factors amid off-field pressures. Club insiders expressed growing concerns over the dip's severity, linking it to unfulfilled expectations following his public confidence in contending for individual honors. Parallel to this, Vinícius demonstrated disciplinary maturation, receiving just one yellow card in the 2025–26 season to date—a stark reduction from 27 yellows and five suspensions across the prior two campaigns—shifting from provocative on-field antics to channeling tension productively without self-sabotage. This contrasted with earlier 2025 incidents, such as a red card leading to a upheld one-match ban for in a fixture. Controversies persisted, notably during the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal on July 10, 2025, where Vinícius was filmed laughing on the bench after substitution in Real Madrid's 4–0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, drawing fan backlash for perceived lack of seriousness amid the humiliating loss. In late September 2025, during a La Liga match against Levante on September 23, he engaged in a heated on-field exchange with the opposing captain, Unai Elgezabal, who accused him of disrespect, prompting post-match criticism though no formal sanction followed. Despite these episodes and squad transitions under new management, Vinícius contributed key goals and assists in early 2025–26 fixtures, including 1 goal in open play across 8 UEFA Champions League matches, registering record involvement metrics for his role even as broader form critiques lingered. As of 15 February 2026, Vinícius Júnior has played 229 games in La Liga for Real Madrid, scoring 69 goals.

International career

Youth international appearances

Vinícius Júnior debuted for Brazil's under-15 national team in 2015, helping the side win the South American Under-15 Championship. His contributions in the tournament underscored his early international promise, with selections drawn from his prolific scoring at Flamengo's youth ranks. Transitioning to the under-17 level in 2016–17, he featured prominently, scoring 17 goals across 19 appearances. The pinnacle came at the 2017 South American Under-17 Championship in , where claimed the title; Vinícius topped the goal charts with 7 strikes, including braces in decisive final-stage wins over (3–0 on March 14) and (3–0 on March 17), and received the Golden Ball as the competition's outstanding player. These successes, totaling at least 24 goals in documented under-15 and under-17 outings, facilitated his rapid elevation to senior consideration by showcasing explosive pace, , and finishing honed through club form.

Senior debut and early caps

Vinícius Júnior earned his first call-up to the national team in 2019, following his breakout performances with Flamengo in the Brazilian Série A. He made his debut on 10 2019, substituting in the 72nd minute during a friendly match against in , where suffered a 1–0 defeat. This appearance came amid high expectations for the 19-year-old winger, whose domestic success had positioned him as a prospect for the Seleção, though his immediate integration was gradual due to established stars like occupying similar roles. Appearances remained sparse from late 2019 through 2021, totaling fewer than 15 caps, hampered by the pandemic's suspension of international fixtures in 2020 and fierce competition within Brazil's attacking lineup. Júnior's minutes were often limited to substitute roles in qualifiers and friendlies, reflecting his ongoing adaptation at Real Madrid, where early struggles with consistency delayed his full emergence. By this stage, he had yet to score for the senior team, focusing instead on earning trust through pace and dribbling contributions off the bench. Júnior featured in the 2021 Copa América as part of Brazil's squad, entering as a substitute in four group and knockout stage matches, including brief cameos against (5 minutes), Ecuador, , and in the semi-final. These outings, totaling around 100 minutes, allowed him to build chemistry with , often combining on counter-attacks to exploit flanks during Brazil's campaign that reached the final. His substitute impact aligned with improving club form at Real Madrid in the 2020–21 season, where increased starts bolstered his case for national team minutes. Through his first 20 senior caps by early 2022, Júnior had scored 5 goals, with his initial international strike coming on 24 March 2022 in a 4–0 qualifier win over , marking a after prolonged goalless runs. This period underscored his transition from peripheral figure to key prospect, tying domestic progress to selective international exposure.

2022–present: World Cup participation and national team role

Vinícius Júnior was included in 's squad for the in , appearing in all five matches and starting four. On 5 December 2022, he scored the opening goal in a 4–1 round-of-16 victory over , contributing to 's advancement. The team reached the quarterfinals but exited after a 1–1 draw with on 9 December 2022, decided by a 4–2 loss, with Vinícius featuring prominently but unable to prevent elimination. Following the tournament, Vinícius established himself as a regular in Brazil's senior setup, accumulating 42 caps, 8 goals, and 6 assists by October 2025. At the 2024 Copa América, he scored twice in a 4–1 group-stage win over on 28 June 2024, marking his first goals in the competition. However, two yellow cards led to a suspension for the quarterfinal defeat to on 6 July 2024, after which he publicly accepted blame for the team's quarterfinal exit. In 2025, amid discussions over his inclusion given fluctuating club performances, Brazil coach excluded him from September qualifiers against and to prioritize rest and recovery. Despite this, Vinícius returned for October friendlies in Asia, scoring in a 5–0 win over on 10 2025, underscoring his enduring role despite selection debates favoring tactical rotation over strict form adherence. The call-up, alongside , highlighted ongoing reliance on Real Madrid attackers for international duties.

Playing style

Technical attributes and strengths

Vinícius Júnior possesses elite and top-end speed, with recorded peak sprints reaching 36 km/h during matches, enabling him to exploit transitions and beat defenders in open spaces. This attribute underpins his role as a counter-attacking threat, where he frequently outpaces full-backs on the flank. His proficiency stands out in one-on-one situations, characterized by quick changes of direction, close ball control, and maneuvers such as nutmegs and in confined areas. evaluations highlight his soft-footed technique and balance, allowing successful take-ons at rates that place him among Europe's top wide attackers, with progressive carries averaging 7.04 per 90 minutes in —leading wingers in the competition. These carries directly advance Real Madrid's attacks, often culminating in key passes or shots, as evidenced by his 99th-percentile ranking in this metric across major leagues. Post-2022, Júnior has demonstrated enhanced aerial involvement, winning approximately % of duels in select assessments, complementing his ground-based strengths through improved timing and leap mechanics. This development broadens his utility in set pieces and crosses, though his primary impact remains terrestrial.

Weaknesses and areas of improvement

Despite registering 22 goals from 271 shots across La Liga and UEFA competitions from 2018 to 2021, Vinícius Júnior maintained a shot conversion rate below 10% in those seasons, highlighting early inefficiencies in clinical finishing. Opponents and analysts have frequently criticized his tendency to simulate contact, resulting in multiple yellow cards for diving, such as during Real Madrid's 2024-25 matches against and Al Hilal, where video evidence showed exaggerated falls without foul contact. Under defensive pressure, Vinícius has exhibited lapses in decision-making, often prioritizing individual flair over safer options, which has led to unnecessary turnovers; for instance, in games prior to 2023, his dribble success rate hovered around 50%, with failed attempts frequently conceding possession in promising attacking positions. Showboating elements in his play, including prolonged ball control to provoke defenders, have exacerbated these issues, occasionally disrupting team rhythm and inviting counterattacks. Post-2023, targeted training has yielded measurable progress in finishing, with Vinícius overperforming his (xG) by approximately 2-3 goals in the 2023-24 season, where he netted 15 goals against an xG of around 12, demonstrating improved composure in one-on-one scenarios. His shot conversion rate rose to over 13% in subsequent campaigns, reflecting better shot selection and reduced wastefulness from promising positions.

Reception

Critical acclaim and comparisons

Vinícius Júnior has received widespread praise from coaches and analysts for his explosive dribbling and match-winning ability, particularly following his decisive contributions in high-stakes matches, including 15 goal contributions (9 goals and 6 assists) in 14 finals for Real Madrid. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti described him as "rare and extraordinary" after he scored the winning goal in a 5-2 Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund on October 22, 2024, highlighting his capacity to turn games single-handedly. Ancelotti further labeled him "the most decisive player in the world" after a standout performance against Liverpool in the same competition, emphasizing his professionalism and growth since 2021. These comments align with acclaim from Brazil's national team setup under Ancelotti, who has credited Júnior's progress for elevating his role post-2022 World Cup. Analysts have frequently compared Júnior's explosiveness to Thierry Henry's prime, noting his ability to accelerate rapidly and score from unlikely positions. Henry himself praised this trait, stating Júnior could "score a goal in 1 second" due to his burst speed, and ranked him as the best left winger globally in April 2023 after his Champions League semifinal exploits against Manchester City. By June 2024, Henry elevated him to "the best player in the world right now," citing his pivotal role in Real Madrid's and Champions League triumphs that season. Such comparisons underscore Júnior's post-2022 evolution into an "unstoppable" wide threat, as echoed in rankings like FourFourTwo's assessment of him as the second-best left winger worldwide. Júnior's 2024 award, announced on December 17, 2024, in , , serves as formal validation of this acclaim, marking the first win for a Brazilian since in 2007 and topping votes from national team coaches, captains, journalists, and fans. Ronaldo Nazário, upon Júnior surpassing his 104-goal record as Real Madrid's top Brazilian scorer in April 2025, hailed him as a symbol of resilience, further cementing parallels to the Brazilian legend's explosive prime through shared goal-scoring milestones at the club. At age 25, Júnior's trophy haul—14 major honors including two Champions Leagues (2022, 2024), two La Ligas, and two Club World Cups—positions him for a legacy akin to Madrid greats like , whom he has cited as an idol for sustained excellence at the club. Analysts project further dominance given his 106 goals and 83 assists in 322 appearances for by mid-2025, with projections emphasizing his potential to redefine winger impact in elite football.

Criticisms from peers and analysts

In 2025, Vinícius Júnior endured a marked decline in performance, managing just six goals and five assists for Real Madrid across all competitions from January onward, a stark contrast to his prior output. This slump extended into late 2025 and early 2026, with Júnior failing to score since October 2025 in approximately 15-18 consecutive matches across competitions, prompting boos from sections of Real Madrid fans at the Santiago Bernabéu during substitutions and underwhelming displays. Ahead of the Supercopa de España Clásico final against Barcelona in January 2026, speculation mounted regarding his place in manager Xabi Alonso's lineup, who had assumed the role in June 2025. Alonso acknowledged Júnior's emotional state required support from teammates and staff, while expressing confidence in his imminent return to decisive form. This contributed to his fall to 16th in the 2025 rankings, reflecting diminished impact in high-stakes fixtures. Analysts noted his ineffectiveness in pivotal games, including an "apathetic" and "disconnected" display during Real Madrid's Club World Cup semifinal loss to PSG on July 10, 2025, where he registered minimal contributions despite opportunities. Critics among peers have targeted his conduct on the pitch. Levante captain Unai Elgezabal publicly condemned Vinícius for a "lack of respect" following Real Madrid's 4-1 LaLiga win over Levante on September 25, 2025, citing an on-field spat involving an "ugly gesture" that Elgezabal deemed inappropriate and disruptive to the game's spirit. Similarly, former Real Madrid figures, including club legend Jorge Valdano, argued that Vinícius's behavior "doesn't fit the Real Madrid shirt," suggesting it prioritizes individualism over collective discipline and warranting consideration for a sale. Analysts have further scrutinized tendencies toward and excessive flair without commensurate results, pointing to documented dives—such as a blatant against captured on video in November 2024, extended into critiques of recurring patterns in 2025—as evidence of ego-driven play that undermines credibility. Paraguay coach labeled such showboating as requiring stricter referee enforcement to curb its inflationary effect on tensions, arguing it escalates conflicts without advancing team objectives. While some observers contend that media coverage disproportionately highlights his athletic gifts while downplaying these lapses, empirical data from his 2025 goal drought—eight strikes in 42 appearances—substantiates concerns over prioritization of spectacle over sustained productivity.

Controversies and public image

Vinícius Júnior has faced over 15 documented racism incidents since joining Real Madrid in 2018, mainly in La Liga matches involving monkey chants, slurs like "black bastard," and threats. Early cases included monkey shouts from Barcelona fans in October 2021 and banana taunts during a March 2022 match at Mallorca. Vinícius Júnior experienced racial abuse from fans on September 18, 2022, prior to a derby, when hundreds chanted "Vinicius, you're a " outside the . Prosecutors investigated but dropped the case, finding no specific chargeable act. In January 2023, an effigy bearing his likeness was hung from a bridge by presumed Atlético Madrid supporters. Later that year, on December 30, 2022, during a match at Real Valladolid's José Zorrilla Stadium, fans directed insults including "black bastard" and "black shit" at him, prompting club bans for 10 supporters and a criminal probe. Multiple chants occurred at clubs including Mallorca, Osasuna, Betis, and Barcelona between February and May 2023, culminating in the most prominent incident on May 21, 2023, at 's , where widespread monkey chants and gestures from fans led to the game being paused twice. faced a €45,000 fine and a partial stand closure for five matches, while three fans were arrested; in June 2024, a court sentenced them to eight months in prison for hate crimes, marking an early punitive milestone. Further abuse followed in September and October 2023 at Atlético Madrid and Sevilla's Sánchez Pizjuán, where on October 21 a fan made monkey gestures toward him, resulting in immediate ejection and police handover, which Vinícius publicly praised as a model response. Incidents persisted into 2024 and beyond, with chants reported at Valencia, Atlético Madrid, and Osasuna in March 2024; gestures prompting anti-racism protocol activation during a February 2025 Copa del Rey semifinal against Real Sociedad; and chants during an August 2025 match at Oviedo. In March 2024, ahead of a Brazil-Spain friendly, Vinícius broke down in tears during a , expressing diminished will to play due to ongoing , underscoring the psychological toll despite institutional responses. Legal progress advanced in May 2025, when five fans from the 2022 incident received suspended prison sentences, fines, and bans in Spain's first hate-crime for racist insults. Outcomes have included sporadic ejections and bans but few long-term prosecutions until 2024-2025 rulings, with critics noting gaps while defenders highlight isolated perpetrators amid broader fanbases. On 14 January 2026, ahead of Real Madrid's Copa del Rey match against Albacete at the Estadio Carlos Belmonte, Albacete fans chanted "You are a monkey, Vinicius you are a monkey" at Vinícius Júnior outside the stadium. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois condemned the incident on Instagram, stating "Enough with the racism! This is disgusting." Vinícius Júnior posted "FAITH. Hala Madrid!" on Instagram in response. On 17 February 2026, during the UEFA Champions League play-off first leg against Benfica, Vinícius Júnior accused Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni of calling him "mono" (monkey), a racist slur, after scoring the opening goal. Benfica fans were also filmed making monkey gestures and noises towards him. The match was halted briefly to activate the anti-racism protocol before resuming, with Real Madrid winning 1-0; UEFA launched an investigation into the allegation. Despite such measures and repeated condemnations, incidents persisted, suggesting limited deterrent effect from arrests and fines alone. Some Spanish outlets have contended that Vinícius's goal celebrations, such as dances, heighten fan antagonism and indirectly provoke hostility, though this view attributes partial causality to the victim amid empirically recurrent abuse irrespective of match context.

On-field behavior and provocations

Vinícius Júnior's on-field demeanor has frequently involved flamboyant celebrations, such as dancing after scoring, which have elicited criticism for provoking opponents and spectators. In a La Liga match against Barcelona on April 5, 2023, he performed a dance routine at Camp Nou following a goal, drawing ire from home fans and commentators who viewed it as unnecessary showboating. Similar displays, including the "SIUUU" gesture during the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona in January 2024, have been cited by peers and analysts as escalating tensions, with Atlético Madrid's Koke publicly accusing Júnior of diving to deceive referees in a September 2024 encounter, urging him to "get up" after a contested fall. In 2025, specific incidents amplified scrutiny of his conduct. During Real Madrid's 4-0 semifinal defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup on July 10, Júnior was substituted in the 65th minute while trailing 3-0 and was captured on camera laughing on the bench after the fourth goal, prompting backlash from fans and media for appearing dismissive of the loss. Later, on October 20, in a La Liga clash, Júnior engaged in a brawl with rival players following verbal provocations from the stands, resulting in a red card for him and highlighting his reactive temperament under pressure. In a recent El Clásico, Júnior reacted angrily to being substituted, later issuing a public apology to fans. Newly appointed coach Álvaro Arbeloa stated he does not care about the reaction, emphasizing his luck in coaching Vinícius as an exciting and fan-loved player who can make a difference in key matches like the recent Supercopa final, and expressed a desire to see him smiling and enjoying football. Peers have reacted variably; former Real Madrid figures have expressed shock at his antics, while Júnior himself acknowledged in February 2025 that he is "no saint" on the pitch, though he attributes inconsistent referee protection to exacerbating confrontations. Over time, Júnior has demonstrated evolution in , reducing disciplinary infractions amid ongoing debates about whether his provocative style fuels his or alienates broader audiences. In the 2024-25 prior, he accumulated 11 yellow cards, contributing to five suspensions across competitions, but by October 2025, he had received only one yellow in 11 appearances, signaling improved as noted by observers. Analysts argue this motivates Júnior personally—evident in his flair and goal-scoring drive—but risks fostering hostility from fans and rivals, as seen in peer confrontations where his gestures invite retaliatory responses.

Responses to activism and media portrayal

Vinícius Júnior has engaged in activism through public campaigns and institutional affiliations, including launching an initiative against on November 20, 2023, coinciding with Black Awareness Day. His efforts extend to education-focused via the Instituto Vini Jr., established in 2021 to provide technological and sports-based learning tools to underprivileged children and adolescents in , with initiatives such as an educational app for low-income students and plans to convert a deactivated public school in São Gonçalo into a free social center serving up to 5,000 people. In February 2024, he was appointed a for Education for All, highlighting his role in addressing educational inequalities. Responses to these activities have included institutional support, such as Brazil's national team wearing black shirts during a June 2023 friendly against Guinea to protest racism, and Real Madrid's repeated legal filings on his behalf, including hate crime complaints leading to arrests and convictions. La Liga secured Spain's first conviction for racist abuse at a football match in June 2024, stemming from chants against him at Valencia's Mestalla Stadium in May 2023, with three individuals sentenced to prison terms. However, outcomes show mixed efficacy: while awareness has risen globally, evidenced by FIFA's anti-discrimination initiatives referencing his case, incidents of abuse persisted into 2024, with four men arrested in October for orchestrating an online hate campaign urging racial slurs against him. Media portrayal varies by outlet and region, with international sources like ESPN and The Guardian often amplifying his activism as a pivotal stand against entrenched soccer racism, while Spanish outlets such as Marca and AS have been criticized for emphasizing his on-field reactions over the abuse itself, contributing to a narrative that dilutes focus on systemic issues. In November 2024, Júnior himself attributed potential Ballon d'Or exclusion to his advocacy, pointing to resistance from figures like La Liga president Javier Tebas, who faced backlash for tweets perceived as downplaying his complaints. Skepticism regarding the activism's depth persists among some analysts, noting that despite heightened visibility, empirical reductions in incidents remain elusive, as Júnior reported ongoing suffering in Spain as late as November 2024, suggesting campaigns may prioritize publicity over causal interventions addressing root behaviors. Mainstream coverage, often from left-leaning institutions, tends to frame his efforts uncritically as heroic, potentially overlooking how his provocative celebrations correlate with escalated fan hostility without equivalent self-reflection.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Vinícius Júnior was raised by his parents, José Paixão de Oliveira and Tatiana Vinicius, in , where they nurtured his early interest in football through local academies and familial encouragement. His father worked in construction while prioritizing Júnior's training, and his mother offered emotional stability during his youth in a working-class environment. This parental involvement helped sustain his focus amid the pressures of rapid professional ascent, with the family maintaining strong ties despite his relocation to in July 2018 at age 18. Júnior has emphasized the role of family proximity in preserving normalcy after moving abroad, often returning to Brazil for visits and incorporating home-cooked meals and routines to combat isolation. He shares a close bond with his parents and siblings, crediting them for grounding his perspective amid international fame. In relationships, Júnior has kept details largely private but went public with Brazilian influencer Maria Julia Mazalli in late 2024; she, born October 30, 1995, in Marília, Brazil, works in fashion and social media, frequently attending his matches. The couple's visibility increased through shared social media posts and events, reflecting a stable partnership that supports his career demands without public overexposure. Júnior has expressed a preference for shielding personal matters from scrutiny, prioritizing discretion to focus on professional stability.

Philanthropy and off-field pursuits

Vinícius Júnior established the Instituto Vini Jr. in July 2021, a dedicated to enhancing by integrating technology and sports as tools for teaching and learning, particularly targeting underprivileged children in regions like his hometown of São Gonçalo. The institute develops educational applications that incorporate soccer terminology to teach foundational skills in and , addressing disparities between private and public schooling systems. Through the institute, Júnior has directed substantial personal investments into educational infrastructure, including the donation of computers and smartphones to public schools to facilitate remote learning access. In 2024, he committed approximately R$20 million (equivalent to €3.3 million) to renovate a decommissioned public school in São Gonçalo into a central hub for the institute's programs, with capacity to serve up to 5,000 children annually through expanded al and recreational facilities. Over the past year, his contributions have exceeded €1.3 million, supporting initiatives that benefited around 3,500 children, including a summer charity event that raised nearly €1 million for global child welfare projects tied to . He also allocated his entire earnings to fund opportunities for disadvantaged youth. In recognition of these efforts, Júnior was appointed a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education for All in February 2024, emphasizing his focus on reducing educational inequalities in Brazil. Beyond direct philanthropy, his off-field business activities include representation by Roc Nation Sports, acquired through their 2023 purchase of the Brazilian agency TFM, which manages his commercial endorsements with brands such as Nike, Gatorade, and Unilever to diversify revenue streams outside football. These pursuits complement his career without documented conflicts in time allocation, though his commitments have occasionally drawn scrutiny for prioritizing personal projects amid high-stakes matches.

References

  1. https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/football/first-team/players/vinicius-paixao-de-oliveira-junior
  2. https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/clubs/players/250121533--vinicius-junior/
  3. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vinicius-junior/profil/spieler/371998
  4. https://fbref.com/en/players/7111d552/Vinicius-Junior
  5. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vinicius-junior/erfolge/spieler/371998
  6. https://fifpro.org/en/supporting-players/player-influence/world11/vinicius-jr-and-a-stellar-season-for-world-11-aspirations
  7. https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/club-world-cup/usa-2025/articles/vinicius-junior-leads-by-example
  8. https://www.si.com/onsi/soccer/real-madrid/vinicius-jr-profile
  9. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/40151224/vinicius-junior-real-madrid-laliga-racial-abuse-valencia-21-2023
  10. https://www.npr.org/2024/06/10/nx-s1-4998276/racist-chant-vinicius-spain-fans-punished
  11. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/la-liga/articles/laliga-opens-investigation-into-alleged-racist-abuse-toward-vin%25C3%25ADcius-in-oviedo-2025-08-26
  12. https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20230524-in-brazil-vinicius-s-hometown-shares-his-pain
  13. https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-soccer-sports-real-madrid-la-liga-da321d4e61971fd5a98af181af7fa29d
  14. https://www.thedailystar.net/sports/football/news/poverty-prestige-fifas-best-vinicius-unstoppable-rise-3779331
  15. https://footballinsides.com/football-blog/vinicius-jr-player-profile/
  16. https://gametyrant.com/news/street-football-culture-how-kids-and-young-adults-from-slums-become-global-stars
  17. https://www.instagram.com/p/DP1-btWjXlF/
  18. https://breakingthelines.com/player-analysis/a-closer-look-at-real-madrids-young-brazilians/
  19. https://www.discoverwalks.com/blog/brazil/top-9-outstanding-facts-about-vinicius-junior/
  20. https://en.as.com/en/2020/03/06/soccer/1583478949_604309.html
  21. https://www.sportingnews.com/us/soccer/news/who-is-vinicius-junior-real-madrids-new-brazilian-wonderkid/42wozv85egvg17vm5g8ckca3j
  22. https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2017/05/09/5910c497468aeb83018b45e4.html
  23. https://footballtalentscout.net/vinicius-junior/
  24. https://en.as.com/en/2017/05/14/soccer/1494760603_836663.html
  25. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/may/23/real-madrid-vinicius-junior-flamengo-46m-16-year-old-transfer
  26. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37529220/real-madrid-bound-vinicius-junior-celebrates-first-senior-goal-flamengo
  27. https://www.fotmob.com/players/846033/vinicius-junior
  28. https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/player/details/320787--vinicius_junior
  29. https://en.as.com/en/2018/02/19/soccer/1519041798_383304.html
  30. https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/13-curiosidades-sobre-vinicius-junior/blt05b59201906f7e16
  31. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vinicius-junior/nationalmannschaft/spieler/371998/verein_id/23130
  32. https://www.transfermarkt.com/u-17-south-american-championship-2017/startseite/pokalwettbewerb/U17A
  33. https://www.worldfootball.net/top_scorer/u17-h-campeonato-sudamericano/
  34. https://en.as.com/en/2017/05/16/soccer/1494920528_826610.html
  35. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37522140/vinicius-junior-extends-flamengo-contract-amid-real-madrid-interest
  36. https://www.si.com/soccer/2017/05/19/vinicius-junior-brazil-flamengo-real-madrid
  37. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vinicius-junior/debuets/spieler/371998
  38. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vinicius-junior/leistungsdaten/spieler/371998
  39. https://www.fifa.com/en/articles/flamengo-generation-of-2019-fights-on
  40. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/40021844
  41. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vinicius-junior/transfers/spieler/371998/transfer_id/1772257
  42. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11835/10890441/real-madrid-sign-vinicius-junior-from-flamengo-for-reported-38m-fee
  43. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37568515/real-madrid-vinicius-junior-destroys-defences-santiago-solari
  44. https://www.managingmadrid.com/2019/4/17/18411784/vinicius-zidane-real-madrid-quotes-2019
  45. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vinicius-junior/leistungsdaten/spieler/371998/saison/2019
  46. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2864727-zinedine-zidane-says-vinicius-jr-not-going-anywhere-amid-january-loan-talk
  47. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/ask?q=vin%25C3%25ADcius%2Bj%25C3%25BAnior%2Bstats%2Bin%2Bla%2Bliga%2B21%252F22%2Bseason
  48. https://www.laliga.com/en-GB/news/real-madrid-proclaimed-champions-of-laliga-santander-2021-22
  49. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/may/28/champions-league-final-match-report-liverpool-real-madrid
  50. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2876687/2021/10/11/he-has-learned-how-to-finish-in-a-week-vinicius-junior-is-showing-signs-of-becoming-the-player-madrid-hoped/
  51. https://www.reddit.com/r/realmadrid/comments/1ktfds1/ancelottis_most_underrated_achievement_unlocking/
  52. https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/club/latest-news/real-madrid-end-season-with-three-trophies-champions-league-laliga-and-spanish-super-cup
  53. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/ask?q=most%2Bsuccessful%2Bdribbles%2Bin%2B22%252F23%2Bseason&l=eu5
  54. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/ask/vinicius-jr-goals-and-assists-2023?l=eu5
  55. https://www.espn.com/soccer/team/results/_/id/86/league/FIFA.CWC/season/2022
  56. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37840383/vinicius-jr-wear-cristiano-ronaldo-no-7-hazard-leaves-real-madrid
  57. https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/brave-move-vinicius-jr-asked-for-cristiano-ronaldo-no7-shirt-real-madrid/blt9dafb6bee10e28d3
  58. https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/el-real-madrid-cerro-la-temporada-con-tres-titulos-champions-liga-y-supercopa-de-espana-06-06-2024
  59. https://www.sportingnews.com/us/soccer/real-madrid/news/vinicius-junior-stats-2023-24-goals-assists-real-madrid-brazil/54a5f6d20210d4584dbfb8f8
  60. https://www.fifa.com/en/the-best-fifa-football-awards/2024/articles/mens-player-2024-winner-vinicius-jr
  61. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/ask?q=vinicius%2Bjr%2Bstats%2B23%252F24
  62. https://www.fifa.com/en/the-best-fifa-football-awards/2024/articles/all-winners-results-bonmati-vinicius
  63. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43024090/vinicius-jr-aitana-bonmati-win-fifa-best-awards
  64. https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/premio-vini-the-best-17-12-2024
  65. https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/vini-jr-alcanza-su-gol-numero-100-con-el-real-madrid-22-01-2025
  66. https://apnews.com/article/real-madrid-vinicius-junior-champions-league-de6609e46e4ebf7dd8da888adefb7549
  67. https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/vinicius-junior-gets-to-this-milestone-for-real-madrid/story
  68. https://www.capology.com/player/vinicius-junior-36719/
  69. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/47175983/real-madrid-vinicius-renewal-talks-drag-2026-sources
  70. https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/vini-jr-hits-worst-goal-233800148.html
  71. https://tribuna.com/en/news/2025-06-25-vinicius-jrs-massive-drop-in-form-shown-in-damning-numbers/
  72. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/la-liga/articles/the-truth-behind-vin%25C3%25ADcius-dip-at-real-madrid-the-mental-factor-worrying-the-club-2025-08-21
  73. https://www.facebook.com/madridistabysoul/posts/-just-in-concerns-growing-at-real-madrid-over-vin%25C3%25ADcius-jrs-formreal-madrid-insid/1086399740367309/
  74. https://www.facebook.com/groups/246180665117818/posts/851984897870722/
  75. https://tribuna.com/en/blogs/from-getting-suspended-to-getting-other-people-suspended-beh/
  76. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles-video/vin%25C3%25ADcius-jr-to-serve-suspension-as-rfef-appeals-committee-upholds-ban-2025-01-13
  77. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/fifa-club-world-cup/articles/vinicius-junior-sparks-controversy-caught-laughing-after-real-madrid-s-humiliating-defeat-to-psg-2025-07-10
  78. https://tribuna.com/en/blogs/vinicius-junior-caught-laughing-on-the-bench-after-psgs-4th/
  79. https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/vinicius-jr-accused-disrespect-levante-captain-opens-up-on-field-spat-real-madrid-star/blt0e63d6c455455e51
  80. https://www.transfermarkt.com/vinicius-junior/leistungsdaten/spieler/371998
  81. https://10footballentertainment.com/vinicius-jr/
  82. https://www.fifa.com/en/the-best-fifa-football-awards/2024/articles/vinicius-jr-real-madrid-brazil-background
  83. https://www.aworldofsoccer.com/top_players/vinicius_junior.htm
  84. https://www.transfermarkt.us/vinicius-junior/nationalmannschaft/spieler/371998
  85. https://www.espn.com/soccer/player/_/id/252107/vinicius-junior
  86. https://www.infobae.com/en/2022/03/25/vinicius-says-he-is-very-happy-after-scoring-his-first-goal-for-brazil-3/
  87. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/40409993/copa-america-2024-vinicius-brazil-does-real-madrid
  88. https://www.transfermarkt.com/vinicius-junior/nationalmannschaft/spieler/371998
  89. https://www.plus.fifa.com/en/content/vinicius-goal-7-brazil-vs-south-korea-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022/2ad13e9a-5bd5-4be1-ba82-c2f964cdb63a
  90. https://copaamerica.com/en/news/vinicius-junior-goal-copa-america-brazil-paraguay
  91. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/40524914/vinicius-jr-brazil-copa-america-exit-was-my-fault
  92. https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/explained-why-vinicius-junior-to-be-dropped-from-brazil-squad-carlo-ancelotti-september-world-cup-qualifiers-chile-bolivia/bltac89d1da3bead629
  93. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/friendlies/articles/estevao-rodrygo-and-vin%25C3%25ADcius-j%25C3%25BAnior-star-in-brazil-s-crushing-victory-over-south-korea-2025-10-10
  94. https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/rodrygo-vinicius-jr-return-brazil-squad-south-korea-japan-friendlies-2025-10-02/
  95. https://en.as.com/soccer/who-is-real-madrids-fastest-player-mbappe-or-vinicius-jr-n/
  96. https://speedsdb.com/vinicius-junior-top-speed
  97. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2699786-scouting-notebook-brazilian-prodigy-vinicius-junior-flashing-ludicrious-talent
  98. https://www.facebook.com/realmadridisinmyveinsaofficial/posts/-vin%25C3%25ADcius-jr-completes-the-most-progressive-carries-per-90-704-amongst-all-lalig/1299569712169526/
  99. https://datamb.football/Vinicius_Junior_Winger_stats/?lang=en
  100. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38680798/erling-haaland-pedri-phil-foden-vinicius-jr-lead-39-best-male-players-age-21-under
  101. https://www.statmuse.com/fc/ask/conversion-rate-vinicius-in-his-career
  102. https://en.nogomania.com/read/Caught-in-the-act-Vinicius-slammed-for-shameless-dive-against-Leganes
  103. https://tribuna.com/en/blogs/did-vinicius-junior-actually-dive-vs-al-hilal-ref-cam-captur/
  104. https://en.namu.wiki/w/%25EB%25B9%2584%25EB%258B%2588%25EC%258B%259C%25EC%259A%25B0%25EC%258A%25A4%2520%25EC%25A3%25BC%25EB%258B%2588%25EC%2598%25A4%25EB%25A5%25B4/%25ED%2581%25B4%25EB%259F%25BD%2520%25EA%25B2%25BD%25EB%25A0%25A5/%25EB%25A0%2588%25EC%2595%258C%2520%25EB%25A7%2588%25EB%2593%259C%25EB%25A6%25AC%25EB%2593%259C%2520CF
  105. https://www.reddit.com/r/realmadrid/comments/18albn1/if_vini_jr_fixes_his_decisionmaking_and_attitude/
  106. https://understat.com/player/7008
  107. https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/ancelotti-lauds-rare-extraordinary-vinicius-after-win-against-dortmund-2024-10-22/
  108. https://onefootball.com/en/news/i-think-he-is-the-most-decisive-player-in-the-world-carlo-ancelotti-heaps-praise-on-vinicius-junior-following-superb-display-against-liverpool-36844723
  109. https://www.si.com/soccer/vinicius-junior-names-favourite-manager-of-career
  110. https://www.reddit.com/r/realmadrid/comments/1i8lbmy/henry_on_vinicius_being_the_best_player_in_the/
  111. https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/thierry-henry-vinicius-junior-is-the-best-player-in-the-world-right-now-ahead-of-euros-and-copa-america/
  112. https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/10-best-left-wingers-world-144700365.html
  113. https://www.tribalfootball.com/article/soccer-champions-league-vinicius-junior-breaks-ronaldo-nazario-s-real-madrid-goal-record-23f5befd-e244-4837-8674-c38d5ce5ebf4
  114. https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/best-player-in-world-black-brazilian-ronaldo-vinicius-jr-message-best-fifa-mens-player-award/bltb90be89d8fdbb505
  115. https://sports.yahoo.com/astonishing-numbers-behind-vinicius-jr-112300584.html
  116. https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/football/vinicius-junior-dreams-to-emulate-cristiano-ronaldo-legacy-at-real-madrid
  117. https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/vinicius-jr-breaks-silence-with-bold-statement-amid-real-madrid-contract-renewal-drama/
  118. https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/six-goals-five-assists-real-madrid-2025-what-happened-vinicius-jr/bltad56f39204fb8e4f
  119. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/la-liga/articles/vin%C3%ADcius-j%C3%BAnior-and-his-goal-drought-are-becoming-a-cause-for-concern-at-real-madrid-2025-12-12
  120. https://www.si.com/soccer/vinicius-junior-private-admission-real-madrid-backlash
  121. https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/booed-fans-vin-cius-jr-083000219.html
  122. https://www.managingmadrid.com/real-madrid-cf-news/102636/xabi-alonso-vinicius-will-return-to-a-great-level-and-will-be-decisive
  123. https://www.daily-sun.com/sports/850900/super-cup-clasico-final-potentially-pivotal-for-alonso-s-future
  124. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/la-liga/articles/vin%25C3%25ADcius-jr-falls-from-they-re-not-ready-to-outside-the-top-10-in-the-2025-ballon-d-or-2025-09-23
  125. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/fifa-club-world-cup/articles/the-dramatic-downfall-of-vinicius-junior-from-ballon-d-or-favorite-to-fading-at-real-madrid-2025-07-10
  126. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/46364247/vinicius-jr-accused-lacking-respect-real-madrid-win
  127. https://www.si.com/soccer/vinicius-junior-accused-lack-of-respect-ugly-clash
  128. https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/vinicius-junior-behaviour-doesnt-fit-real-madrid-shirt-club-legend-sold/blt770a0bebdff75b5d
  129. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1045909040230518&id=100044342953460&set=a.784391103048981
  130. https://tribuna.com/en/blogs/he-actually-did-it-8-times-fans-mock-vinicius-jr-shocking-dr/
  131. https://www.facebook.com/100094503347354/posts/vinicius-has-scored-8-goals-in-42-games-in-2025-and-obviously-he-started-every-m/599405163219590/
  132. https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/26/football/vinicius-jr-effigy-real-madrid-atletico-spt-intl
  133. https://www.theguardian.com/football/article/2024/jun/10/valencia-fans-who-racially-abused-vinicius-junior-given-prison-sentences
  134. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-67185505
  135. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6583707/2025/08/29/vinicius-junior-racism-mbappe-oviedo/
  136. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/39807062/vinicius-tears-racism-just-want-play-football
  137. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45252211/valladolid-fans-found-guilty-hate-crime-vinicius-insults
  138. https://tribuna.com/amp/en/news/2026-01-14-youre-a-mkey-albacete-fans-target-vinicius-ahead-of-copa-del-rey-clash-courtois-reacts/
  139. https://ca.news.yahoo.com/vini-jr-targeted-racism-ahead-201300190.html
  140. https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/courtois-hits-racist-abuse-albacete-191500235.html
  141. https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2026/2/17/vinicius-earns-real-madrid-1-0-win-at-benfica-in-match-marred-by-racism-row
  142. https://africa.espn.com/football/story/_/id/47963819/vinicius-jr-racism-claim-investigated-uefa
  143. https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/benfica-identify-two-fans-made-183500017.html
  144. https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/sports/atletico-madrid-denounces-racist-chants-against-vinicius-junior/3873361/
  145. https://www.facebook.com/100088342666112/posts/-koke-told-vinicius-jr-to-get-up-after-accusing-him-of-diving-to-deceive-the-ref/505527799068638/
  146. https://www.facebook.com/groups/458978894153456/posts/25196228773335125/
  147. https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lvaro-arbeloa-real-madrid-winning-130707219.html
  148. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/47597644/new-real-madrid-coach-alvaro-arbeloa-backs-players-deliver
  149. https://www.si.com/onsi/soccer/real-madrid/news/former-real-madrid-player-has-shocking-opinion-on-vinicius-jr-s-on-field-antics
  150. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43805994/real-madrid-vinicius-talks-pitch-conduct-no-saint
  151. https://www.facebook.com/100095201864863/posts/-vin%25C3%25ADcius-j%25C3%25BAniors-discipline-evolution-this-season-only-1-yellow-card-in-11-game/675009825682407/
  152. https://www.facebook.com/kdcglobalcomedian/posts/atm-fans-insulted-vini-jr-from-when-madrid-bus-arrived-till-he-was-substitued-th/1112026774271072/
  153. https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/la-liga/articles/the-warning-vin%25C3%25ADcius-jr-received-over-his-behavior-at-real-madrid-2025-09-22
  154. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38950056/vinicius-junior-launches-campaign-combat-racism-brazil
  155. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/oct/11/vinicius-junior-launches-education-app-help-students-brazil-rio
  156. https://www.reddit.com/r/soccer/comments/1euca74/vini_jr_will_spend_r20m_33m_euros_to_turn/
  157. https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/vinicius-junior-named-unesco-goodwill-ambassador
  158. https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/vinicius-junior-brazil-teammates-wear-black-stand-against-racism-1.6880415
  159. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37706283/real-madrid-file-hate-crime-complaint-vinicius-racial-abuse
  160. https://www.laliga.com/en-GB/news/laliga-lands-first-conviction-in-spain-for-racist-abuse-at-a-football-match
  161. https://inside.fifa.com/news/fifa-stepping-up-anti-discrimination-fight-as-un-marks-international-day-for
  162. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/oct/24/four-men-arrested-over-online-racist-hate-campaign-against-vinicius-junior
  163. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/42487306/vinicius-junior-racism-spain-suffered-lot-suffer
  164. https://theconversation.com/vinicius-junior-la-liga-and-the-spanish-media-must-both-accept-responsibility-for-the-racism-that-shames-football-206448
  165. https://www.dailysabah.com/sports/football/vinicius-claims-anti-racism-stance-cost-him-ballon-dor-crown
  166. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37721993/laliga-chief-tebas-apologises-misinterpreted-vinicius-tweet
  167. https://urbanpitch.com/the-spanish-medias-not-so-shocking-coverage-of-the-racism-towards-vinicius-jr/
  168. https://www.bbntimes.com/society/meet-the-parents-of-real-madrid-s-rising-star-vinicius-jr-tatiana-vinicius-and-jose-paixao-de-oliveira
  169. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/26/sports/vinicius-real-madrid.html
  170. https://vinicius-7.com/vinicius-junior-personal-life/
  171. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/vinicius-jr-girlfriend-maria-julia-110248922.html
  172. https://tribuna.com/en/blogs/2024-11-08-meet-vinicius-jrs-girlfriend-maria-julia-mazzalli/
  173. https://www.essentiallysports.com/us-sports-soccer-who-is-vinicius-jrs-girlfriend-everything-you-need-to-know-about-maria-julia-mazalli/
  174. https://institutovinijr.org.br/institute-vini-jr-en/
  175. https://www.unesco.org/en/node/169614
  176. https://en.as.com/soccer/what-is-the-socrates-award-at-the-ballon-dor-vinicius-junior-wins-humanitarian-award-n/
  177. https://www.npr.org/2022/12/09/1140830605/brazil-vinicius-junior-charity-fifa-world-cup-qatar
  178. https://www.the-sun.com/sport/12226017/real-madrid-vinicius-jr-school-nvestment-transfer-news/
  179. https://www.facebook.com/100077476295666/posts/vin%25C3%25ADcius-junior-has-raised-approximately-1m-at-his-charity-event-for-children-in/525809386678267/
  180. https://www.forbes.com/sites/justinbirnbaum/2023/07/07/jay-z-roc-nation-sports-acquires-brazilian-soccer-agency-tfm-vinicius-junior-gabriel-martinelli/
  181. https://www.forbes.com/profile/vinicius-junior/
  182. https://www.si.com/onsi/soccer/real-madrid/general/vinicius-junior-net-worth-2024
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.