Real Madrid icon Pedja Mijatovic has stirred debate in Spain after urging his former club to part ways with Vinicius Junior, despite the Brazilian’s strong cameo performance last weekend.
The 24-year-old winger came off the bench to score and assist in Madrid’s 3-0 win over Real Oviedo, yet Mijatovic was unimpressed by what he described as Vinicius’ troubling on-field behaviour.
Vinicius starts from the bench in Oviedo victory
Head coach Xabi Alonso rang the changes from Madrid’s season opener against Osasuna. Rodrygo was preferred up front, while Vinicius started on the bench.
Trent Alexander-Arnold was also dropped, making way for youngster Franco Mastantuono, who earned his first start for Los Blancos.
Kylian Mbappe stole the spotlight with a brace before Vinicius entered the fray in the second half to add a goal and an assist, sealing a convincing win for Madrid.
Real Madrid legend urges club to sell Vinicius
Despite the Brazilian’s impact, Mijatovic was quick to voice his concerns. Speaking on El Larguero, the 56-year-old questioned whether Vinicius truly embodies what the Real Madrid shirt represents.
“The Vini-Rodrygo competition can be good, but it can also create headaches for the coach,” he said.
“For now, Rodrygo is there, and it’s a smart move from Xabi to keep everyone sharp and motivated. But some things don’t change.
“For me, Vinicius’ behaviour isn’t fitting for Real Madrid. He always seems to need conflict to motivate himself. He’s an excellent player, but the club has to ask itself if it’s worth it.”
Real Madrid, still adjusting to Alonso’s new era, will return to La Liga action on Saturday evening when they host Mallorca at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Meanwhile, negotiations between Vinícius and Madrid over a new contract have reportedly hit a tense stalemate, and money lies at the heart of it.
According to reports from Spain, the Brazilian star has asked for a salary package on par with the record-breaking wages Cristiano Ronaldo earned at the height of his powers in Madrid. Such a request would mark uncharted territory for the club in the modern era.