Real Madrid News
Mourinho to act as a ‘father figure’ to key Real Madrid superstar after fresh extension
Real Madrid put an end to Vinicius Jr.’s long-running transfer saga by extending his contract until 2032.
The Brazilian has signed a lucrative contract that should seal his long-term future at Santiago Bernabeu and it is evident the club want to keep him happy.
Vinicius has been an asset for Los Blancos over the years and Real Madrid are working hard to make sure the player feels at home, despite having made so many signings this summer.
Jose Mourinho to act as a father figure
According to El Larguero, Jose Mourinho is set to take Vinicius under his wing and act as a father figure to the Brazilian going forward.
The report suggests Mourinho intends to be by Vinicius’ side at all times, aware that the winger is a good but highly emotional character whose temperament has occasionally led him into trouble.
The Portuguese understands that, and believes his guidance can help the player channel his emotions more effectively.
Having previously held out for a package worth close to €30 million, the Brazilian ultimately accepted a €24 million base salary, boosted by significant bonuses, effectively choosing glory over money by turning down Arsenal’s ambitious interest.
Mourinho’s crucial role in the renewal
That father-figure relationship is no surprise given the part Mourinho reportedly played in getting the deal over the line.
The Portuguese was absolutely key to the renewal, directly intervening to ensure the player stayed.
Mourinho is said to have called Vinicius multiple times during the holidays to sell him on his project and open his mind to accepting Real Madrid’s offer, with the pair also speaking regularly after training.
The two now share a strong relationship despite the fallout from last season’s Champions League tie against Benfica, when Mourinho appeared to criticise the winger.
With the renewal secured, Vinicius will now look to justify the faith placed in him and rediscover his best form.
The immediate priority, however, will be improving his chemistry with Kylian Mbappe, which was surprisingly poor last season.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
