Vinícius Jr. Needs a Reset at Real Madrid: Three Ways Mourinho Can Revive His Best Form

Vinícius Jr. is going through one of the more difficult spells of his Real Madrid career, with the Brazilian yet to rediscover the explosiveness and confidence that have made him one of the club’s most dangerous attackers.

The 26-year-old has scored just once for Madrid during the opening stages of the 2026/27 campaign, while his performances have increasingly come under scrutiny. His difficult start has also continued with Brazil, where he has struggled to produce the same individual impact that supporters have become accustomed to seeing. 

José Mourinho has publicly defended his star forward but has also acknowledged that Vinícius is currently below his best. That leaves the Real Madrid manager with an important challenge: finding a way to bring his most dangerous version back before the season reaches its decisive stages. 

1. Real Madrid Could Change the Way Vinícius and Mbappé Play Together

One of the biggest tactical questions at Madrid involves Vinícius and Kylian Mbappé.

Both attackers naturally prefer operating from the left side, creating congestion in an area where Real Madrid need space for their most dangerous players. Mbappé has continued to produce impressive numbers from the central role, but his tendency to move towards the left can sometimes take away the space Vinícius needs to attack defenders. 

Mourinho may therefore need to make small adjustments to his attacking structure rather than simply asking Vinícius to adapt.

Giving the Brazilian more freedom to stay wide and attack one-on-one situations could help restore the qualities that previously made him such a decisive player.

The challenge will be finding enough room for both stars to influence matches without one limiting the other.

2. Vinícius Needs Confidence From Real Madrid Supporters

There is also a psychological side to Vinícius’ struggles.

The Brazilian has received criticism and whistles from sections of the Santiago Bernabéu crowd during his difficult start. That reaction has come at a particularly delicate moment following a lengthy contract saga and a run of performances below his usual standard. 

Vinícius has previously shown that confidence can completely transform his performances. When he feels trusted and supported, his acceleration, dribbling and willingness to take defenders on can change matches.

Carlo Ancelotti recently attempted to give him a confidence boost by handing him penalty-taking responsibility for Brazil. A similar show of faith from Madrid could help the winger regain his rhythm. 

With important matches approaching, rebuilding that relationship with the Bernabéu could prove just as important as any tactical adjustment.

3. Mourinho Could Give Vinícius a Short Break

The most difficult option may also be the simplest: take Vinícius out of the spotlight temporarily.

Real Madrid have alternatives. Young winger Yan Diomande is pushing for more opportunities, while Arda Güler has also been producing impressive performances. That gives Mourinho enough depth to rotate his attacking options without completely weakening the team. 

A short spell on the bench would not necessarily represent a loss of status for Vinícius. Instead, it could give him an opportunity to step away from the pressure, watch the team from the outside and return with renewed energy.

However, Mourinho would have to handle the situation carefully. Vinícius remains one of Madrid’s biggest stars, and managing his confidence and relationship with the coaching staff will be crucial.

Can Vinícius Return to His Best?

There is little doubt that Real Madrid need a better version of Vinícius Jr.

The Brazilian has already demonstrated that he can decide the biggest matches, including Champions League finals, and his career record shows that a difficult run does not necessarily define his season. 

The key question now is whether Mourinho can create the right environment for his star winger to regain his confidence while also finding a tactical balance with Mbappé.

With another El Clásico approaching later in October, Madrid will hope Vinícius can rediscover his spark before the biggest fixtures arrive.