José Mourinho Defends Vinícius Jr. Amid Real Madrid Bernabéu Jeers: “People Only Throw Stones at Fruitful Trees

Mourinho Defends Vinícius Amid Bernabéu Whistles

The status of Vinícius Júnior at Real Madrid has drawn discussion following booing from the Santiago Bernabéu crowd. When questioned about the forward’s reception, Mourinho invoked a traditional proverb to contextualize the pressure faced by elite performers, noting that critics only target figures capable of delivering decisive results.

“In Portugal, there is a proverb that I don’t know if it is the same in Spain,” Mourinho told reporters. “It says ‘you only throw stones at trees that have fruit.’ What has Vini done here in recent years? How many Champions Leagues has he won? How many goals has he scored? He is a tree with a lot of fruit. And people throw stones because they want fruit.”

The manager expressed confidence that the forward’s peak form remains ahead of him this season. Pointing to athletic tracking data, Mourinho highlighted the player’s physical metrics, emphasizing that performance indicators point toward maximum output. “In an era of data and statistics, he is very close to his maximum speed. He has broken his records in high-intensity runs, in balls recovered, and in balls recovered in the final third of the pitch,” Mourinho added.

Reflecting on Squad Discipline and Expectations

Mourinho also reflected on broader tactical demands within his squad, addressing comments made by Huijsen regarding the manager’s demanding coaching style. Rather than softening his approach, Mourinho embraced the label of a high-expectation manager, stating that absolute commitment is the baseline requirement for wearing the club crest.

“The other day I read some statements by Huijsen, saying that I am heavy, that I am always behind him. And it is like that, I am very demanding,” Mourinho said. “The requirement is to give everything that has to be given. I respect the player who gives everything. He wanted to play, he wanted to help, he played as a team, he played with respect for his shield. That type of player always has me by his side.”

Discussing the relationship between the team and the stadium, Mourinho drew on his historical record in home fixtures to emphasize the collective strength derived from a unified home support. While acknowledging that supporters retain the right to react according to matchday developments, he underscored that sustained success depends on synergy between the pitch and the stands.

Lighthearted Remarks on the World Cup Venue Debate

Before turning his attention entirely to the fixture against Rayo Vallecano, Mourinho opened his media appearance with playful remarks regarding ongoing discussions over the host venue for the upcoming World Cup final. Amid assertions from Morocco that it will be played in Casablanca and Louzán insisting it will be in Spain, the Portuguese coach offered a sentimental personal preference.

“One thing is where it should be, and another is where I would like it to be,” Mourinho said with a smile. “Forgive me, but I would like it to be in Lisbon. And my answer is not because I am the manager of Real Madrid… If you can play in a mythical, historic stadium where some of the best players in history played, it should be there.”

Next Fixture and Preparation

Real Madrid enters the weekend fixture following a measured recovery session, with the technical staff balancing physical preservation and tactical preparation. Mourinho praised the recent efforts of his squad, noting the resilience shown by players during demanding closing minutes in prior fixtures. The club will face Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.