Mbappe calls on fans to support Vinicius Jr. to support amid Real Madrid’s problems

Kylian Mbappe has urged Real Madrid fans not to single out Vinicius Jr for the club’s woes, insisting the blame for their side’s stuttering form lies with the entire team.

The France forward called for unity ahead of Real’s Champions League match at home to Monaco on Tuesday after tensions reached boiling point at the Santiago Bernabeu during Saturday’s 2-0 LaLiga win over Levante.

«I understand the fans because we are not doing things right,» Mbappe told a press conference on Monday.

«What I didn’t like was that when they booed, they had to curse the whole team. You shouldn’t single out one player. It’s not Vini’s fault that we’re playing the way we’re playing now.»

«That’s all I have to say: don’t go after one player. It’s our collective fault, and we have the character to change that on the field.»

Despite Saturday’s victory in LaLiga, which saw second-place Real move within a point of Barcelona, ​​who lost at Real Sociedad on Sunday, frustration spilled over at the Bernabeu, with fans directing their anger at several players, including Vinicius.

The Brazil winger was booed throughout the match and was particularly attacked during the starting line-up announcements, with heavy boos echoing around the stadium.

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The unrest follows a turbulent period for the fourteen-time European champion. Defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final this month, coupled with a shock 3-2 Copa del Rey exit at second division Albacete, has left fans disillusioned.

ALONSO’S DISCHARGE CAUSES TENSION

The sacking of manager Xabi Alonso last week, seven months into his term, has further fueled tensions.

Reports of internal strife, including clashes between the coach and Vinicius, cast a shadow over Real’s beleaguered campaign and Alonso’s departure.

Saturday’s scenes painted a picture of tension and vulnerability. Television footage showed a visibly emotional Vinicius sitting on the steps leading to the pitch, clearly shaken after hearing boos during the line-up announcement.

Mbappe, who consoled the 23-year-old winger before the match, stressed the importance of providing a supportive environment for Vinicius.

“Vini, just like you, just like them, just like everyone else, he is human,” Mbappe said.

«He is an incredible talent, a great guy, and I am lucky to know him. We all have to protect him better. He is not alone at Real Madrid, and we are all behind him. When he is at his best, he is one of the best players in the world.»

«My job is to support him and care for him. When he is happy, he makes a difference, and that should be our shared focus.»

Published on January 19, 2026