German football legend Lothar Matthäus has criticised Vinicius Junior, claiming the Brazilian forward is damaging Real Madrid’s progress and that the team performs better when he is absent.
The former Germany international made the comments after Vinicius missed Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the 10th round of the Spanish league last Sunday.
Matthäus questioned the winger’s influence on the Spanish club, arguing that his personality and behaviour have had a negative effect on the team’s atmosphere and public image.
Speaking in comments reported by Spanish newspaper AS, Matthäus said: “I am eager to see what Real Madrid will do regarding Vinicius Junior, as the team is working better without him.”
He added: “He causes problems, he has a difficult personality, he is not beneficial to the team, and his public image is damaging to the club.”
The former Bayern Munich midfielder also compared Vinicius with England captain Harry Kane, who won the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
He explained, “I was pleased that he was not among the top ten in the Ballon d’Or race. Harry Kane is a man of high morals, while Vinicius is not.”
Matthäus went further in his criticism, identifying the Brazilian as the main source of problems within the Real Madrid squad.
He stressed: “The problem at Real Madrid is Vinicius Junior. When he is absent, the team’s performance improves, discipline increases, the players support each other, and they become more cohesive.”
He continued: “His presence creates a great deal of arrogance, and his body language negatively affects the team and the club as a whole.”
The German believes Real Madrid president Florentino Perez should consider taking action to address the situation, including disciplinary measures or a change in the player’s role.
“I hope, for the sake of Real Madrid, that the president will take some action, whether by reprimanding him or by having Mourinho keep him on the bench.”
Jose Mourinho has previously defended Vinicius, however, and made clear that he values the Brazilian’s contribution despite not guaranteeing him a starting position.
“It’s simple, he’s suspended in La Liga, and he’ll play in the Champions League. I like Vinicius a lot and I need him, but that doesn’t mean he’ll be a starter. For me, there’s no problem with that. He’s a very good player in a very good team.”
Vinicius seriously considered Arsenal move
Away from the criticism surrounding his performances at Real Madrid, Vinicius’ agent, Michael Yormak, has revealed that the forward considered joining Arsenal during last summer’s transfer window.
Yormak said the Premier League club made a serious attempt to secure the Brazilian’s signature before the player decided to remain in Madrid.
“Arsenal were very involved in the deal and were very serious in their attempts,” Yormak said, in comments quoted by the newspaper.
He added: “But Vinicius’s heart is in Madrid, that’s where he always wanted to be, and he’s there now, and he hopes to stay there for the rest of his career. I don’t think it was ever in doubt.”
The agent acknowledged that Arsenal’s interest was strong enough to make the player consider the possibility of moving to England.
“Did he seriously consider Arsenal? Of course. When a club like Arsenal comes along and greets you with such interest and makes you feel so wanted, it’s only natural to listen to the offer.”
He added: “But now he is where he wants to be, and we are happy to have him there.”
Yormak also reflected on the forward’s journey at Real Madrid, explaining that Vinicius began his professional career at the club when he was 18 and is now 26, having collected numerous trophies.
He suggested that finishing his career at the Spanish giants would be a special achievement for the player.
Vinicius has since committed his future to Real Madrid by signing a contract that runs until 2032. The agreement reportedly includes a weekly salary of £480,000, according to the British newspaper.
