Forward Vinícius Júnior was the player chosen to address journalists at Valdebebas on Monday in anticipation of Tuesday night’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Bayern Munich. “I have a special connection with Arbeloa, just as I did with Ancelotti, he’s always made it clear to me what he expects of me,” he said. “I’ve always given my all and I’ll continue to do so. I don’t think I’ve ever gone this long without scoring a goal. I’ve learnt from this difficult spell and I want
to keep learning. The best players always bounce back.”
Vinícius on the most important factor against Bayern
“It’s definitely the players’ connection with the fans that always changes the dynamic of home games and Champions League matches. We’re up against a strong side, but we have experience in these matches and hopefully we can pull it off.”
Vinícius on inconsistency
“Some days are just like that; there are days when we’re more or less on the ball, and that’s what happened in Mallorca. We were coming off a break and, as the manager said, ‘if you’re not giving 200%, you don’t win matches’.”
Vinícius on his renewal
“I hope I can stay here for a long time. I still have a year left on my contract, but I’m very relaxed. I have the chairman’s confidence. At the right time, I’ll sign the new deal and stay here for a long time, because this is the club of my dreams.”
Vinícius on why he didn’t say goodbye to Xabi Alonso
“I was playing matches, but getting few minutes. But every manager has his own methods and I didn’t click with him as he wanted. But it was a learning experience and I hope I can continue with Arbeloa, as I have a wonderful connection with him and he’s always given me confidence.”
Vinícius on his relationship with Mbappé
“People say all sorts of things. Kylian is here to help us; his goals give us confidence. We need to be on the same page tomorrow. It’s a tough match where the top players make the difference, and Mbappé is one of them.”
Vinícius on how he feels right now
“I’ve had some tough times this season, when I wasn’t scoring and the fans were booing me, but it was all a learning experience. I’m in good physical shape. International duty changes things a bit because everything changes. I work hard at the club and also at home with my physio to be 100% ready for my team.”
Vinícius on Kane possibly missing out with injury
“It’s different because he scores a lot of goals, but they have a massive squad with players who switch positions. Whoever plays, it’s going to be very difficult and we have to be prepared.”
Vinícius on criticism of him and Mbappé’s defending
“Of course it’s annoying, but people are free to say whatever they like. We have to listen to the manager. What comes from outside doesn’t affect us. We can make each other better.”
Vinícius on racism
“It’s a complicated issue and it happens a lot. Hopefully Lamine can keep up this fight too. We have money, but poor black people face more difficulties than we do. I’m not saying that Spain, Germany or Portugal are racist countries, but there are racists in every country and if we fight together, hopefully other players and people will stop suffering these things.”
Vinícius on his anger when Xabi Alonso took him off in the Clásico
“It wasn’t a nice moment; I apologised to everyone. I like playing every match and I didn’t start any of them. Then, with a clear head, you can see that you’ve made a mistake. I’m young and every day is a new experience where you can improve.”
Vinícius on Militão’s return
“I’m really happy about his return. He’s one of my best friends. He’s the best centre-back in the world and when he’s with us, we’re better. When all the players are here, we’re stronger. Now Jude, Militão and Ceballos are coming back…”
