Madrid’s derby carried its familiar weight last Sunday, and Vinicius Junior left the Atlético de Madrid 2-1 victory over Real Madrid under renewed scrutiny. The Brazilian forward did not score at the Metropolitano and was taken off nine minutes into the second half, while criticism from sections of the Bernabéu crowd has also become part of the conversation around his form.
Nacho Fernández, the former Real Madrid captain and academy product, has urged supporters to turn that frustration into backing for a player he believes has already delivered greatly for the club and still has much more to offer. Speaking about Vinicius, Nacho stressed both the forward’s record in Madrid and his commitment behind the scenes.
“Vini has won many things with Real Madrid and has given a great deal to Real Madrid,” Nacho said. “Every player goes through spells when they are not at their best level. I know Vini personally and I have no doubt that he is among those who work the hardest.”
The defender, who lifted the Champions League trophy during his time at the club, acknowledged that demands from the Bernabéu are woven into Real Madrid’s history. Even so, he said Vinicius deserves a different response from the stands. “He still has a lot left to give Real Madrid. I would love those whistles to become applause. I encourage the fans to stand with Vini because of what he has done and what he can still do.”
Nacho was also asked to imagine managing a Real Madrid side containing both Vinicius and Kylian Mbappé. His answer was immediate: “If I were Real Madrid’s coach, I would want both of them.”
