After winning The Best award and the Intercontinental Cup with Real Madrid, Vinícius Jr was targeted by criticism from Lothar Matthäus, who compared him unfavorably to Neymar. The Brazilian responded calmly and maturely.
Vinícius Jr is living a pivotal moment in his career. In Doha, he not only contributed to Real Madrid's 3-0 victory against Pachuca in the Intercontinental Cup final but also received the prestigious The Best award. A reward that, according to the player himself, symbolizes years of hard work and sacrifices.
"They tried to belittle me, but I'm here. Nobody will tell me who I should be or how I should behave," the Brazilian attacker declared to the press, visibly emotional after this individual and collective triumph.
Lothar Matthäus' Harsh Words About Vinícius Jr
This triumph didn't prevent some critical voices from speaking out. Lothar Matthäus, a German football legend, chose to adopt a scathing tone in an interview with Sport BILD. The legend attacked the Brazilian number 7, comparing him to Neymar. Although he recognizes his immense talent, Lothar Matthäus can't stomach his behavior and especially his constant provocations in Real Madrid and Seleção matches.
"For me, Vinícius is the second Neymar. He has immense talent, but he gets in his own way with unnecessary provocations. Neymar is not a good model. Vini Jr. needs to mature to become a true world-class footballer," Matthäus declared, also expressing his preference for Rodri as the Ballon d'Or winner.
Vinícius Jr's Dignified Response
Questioned about these criticisms during a press conference, Vinícius Jr adopted a poised attitude and reaffirmed his commitment to Real Madrid and his personal vision of success.
"I arrived at Real Madrid, the best club in the world, and I never lowered my head despite the criticism. I'm here for my teammates and to honor this jersey. External opinions don't affect me," the Merengues' number 7 declared.
In a more private setting, Vinícius responded to Matthäus, "Neymar is a great player and a friend. What people say outside doesn't matter." The comparison to Neymar, although intended as criticism by Matthäus, found a different echo with Vinícius. The Real Madrid attacker considers his compatriot an inspiration and doesn't see any incompatibility between talent and personality.