Vinícius Júnior is still in trouble: a key Real Madrid player complains about him

The classic at the Metropolitano exposed serious structural problems in Real Madrid, especially in the collective defensive aspect. Courtois, one of the most respected voices in the locker room, decided to speak bluntly after the tough defeat. He explained that at certain moments the team seemed to play with ten because of the lack of sacrifice from some footballers.

The Belgian goalkeeper clearly pointed to Vinicius Junior, whom he reproached for his limited defensive help on the left wing. That lack of involvement created spaces that Atlético de Madrid repeatedly exploited and led to numerous goal-scoring opportunities. The message was understood as a warning for the Brazilian at a crucial moment in the season.

Courtois criticizes the pressing and defensive solidarity

Courtois explained that Real Madrid didn't know how to keep constant pressing after losing possession, which allowed the opponent to dominate comfortably. According to the goalkeeper, that disconnect left several areas of the field unprotected, especially the side defended by Vinicius Junior. He considered that this lack of commitment clearly affected the collective performance during much of the match.

The Belgian also regretted that the defenders didn't properly block the crosses, thus generating a constant flow of dangerous chances at his goal. For him, the sum of these imbalances reflects a lack of balance that has been repeated in several important matches for Real Madrid. He insisted that without joint effort, it's impossible to keep the solidity required to compete for titles.

Real Madrid's locker room also reacts

After the match, Courtois decided to directly express his concern to Vinicius Junior in a serious conversation inside the white locker room. He asked him for more sacrifice in defensive duties and reminded him of the importance of helping his teammates in moments of maximum demand. His intention was to emphasize that individual talent must always be accompanied by tactical discipline.

The criticism didn't come only from the goalkeeper, as other leaders of Real Madrid supported that message to the Brazilian. Carvajal, according to press reports, also urged Vinicius Junior to get more involved in off-the-ball work. These voices reflect a climate of growing discomfort with the winger's defensive attitude in recent matches.

The episode marks a turning point in the relationship between Vinicius Junior and some leaders of Real Madrid. Courtois has made it clear that defensive involvement will be key to the team's balance this season. If the Brazilian doesn't adjust his attitude, he could face a loss of minutes and less support from the locker room.