In Matchweek 17 of La Liga, Real Madrid defeated Sevilla 2-0 at home. Vinícius Jr. was substituted in the 83rd minute.
During Real Madrid’s home match against Sevilla, Vinícius was booed by some Bernabéu fans when he was substituted off the pitch. Nevertheless, the club has conveyed an atmosphere of “calm and normality”—Real Madrid still regards renewing his contract as its top priority at present.
In an interview with Camel Live, Predrag Mijatović, former Real Madrid sports director and club legend, talked about Vinícius’ contract extension issue. He said that he understands Real Madrid’s stance of “prioritizing the contract renewal”, because “they spent millions of pounds on an 18-year-old player and recognize his talent”.
In addition, he affirmed Vinícius’ performances on the pitch, stating frankly, “He always steps up in crucial matches.” But at the same time, he pointed out that some of the player’s off-field behaviors “are not entirely consistent with Real Madrid’s consistent club ethos”.
From Mijatović’s perspective, Real Madrid’s push for the contract renewal is a “very smart strategy”. On the one hand, the team needs Vinícius’ ability; on the other hand, if the situation changes in the future, the club still holds the initiative. “If problems arise, we can discuss the possibility of a transfer. Real Madrid cannot allow such a heavily-invested player to leave on a free transfer.”
However, Mijatović also clearly emphasized the bottom line: “If Vinícius firmly refuses to renew his contract, Real Madrid must do everything possible to complete the transfer. Real Madrid will always come before any player, and no one can be above the club.”
He further stated that Real Madrid “must make a decision as soon as possible” regarding the contract renewal. He explained, “If Vinícius is now demanding a contract like Mbappé’s or Messi’s, it means he has no intention of renewing the deal. That’s crystal clear—none of us are children. If he wants to see out his current contract, that’s fine, but Real Madrid’s interests will always be the top priority. The club cannot be dictated by the player or his agent team under any circumstances.”
Finally, Mijatović concluded that Real Madrid will continue to win honors regardless of whether they have Vinícius or not. “The club has lost many great players in the past, but Real Madrid has always kept winning. Everyone must understand this.”
