Matthäus: Vinícius Only Harms Real Madrid, He Belongs on the Bench

Football legend Lothar Matthäus has launched a scathing attack on Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior. Speaking to Bild, the 65-year-old former Bulgaria national team manager and current Sky Sports analyst offered a ruthless assessment of the Brazilian's situation and his overall impact on Los Blancos. 

Matthäus argued that the Spanish giants look far more convincing without the South American, putting the spotlight on the looming decisions facing manager Mourinho. As evidence, the German pointed to Real's dramatic 4-3 victory over Roma in Rome, where the winger was substituted, as well as their long-awaited away victory in El Clásico against Barcelona.

According to Matthäus, the forward's conduct is detrimental to the squad: "He is an abrasive character and ruins the team atmosphere. His public persona does not help the club in any way. That is why I'm glad he didn't make the Ballon d'Or top ten. Harry Kane, for example, is his exact opposite—a true gentleman who always acts with understanding and patience. The same cannot be said for Vinícius Júnior." 

The former Germany international added that clubs like Bayern Munich and Barcelona do not suffer from such internal friction. In his view, the Brazilian's presence on the pitch is marked by excessive ego and poor body language, whereas the team demonstrates far greater discipline and unity in his absence.

Matthäus also directly addressed Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, calling for stern action: "For the good of the club, I hope the president takes a clear stance on Vinícius Júnior soon—either through an official warning or by allowing Mourinho to leave him on the bench. Even when fully fit, he should remain among the substitutes because his behavior harms both the squad and the institution." 

The winger is currently serving a four-match suspension following a straight red card against Villarreal for pulling Saliba's hair. The Brazilian has already missed the clashes with Sevilla and Barcelona, and will also be sidelined for this weekend's encounter against Santander. 

The star's biggest hurdle remains the fact that the team has produced excellent results without him, while his replacement, Yan Diomande, continues to cement his spot with a string of impressive performances.