Vinicius Junior is eager to extend his stay at Real Madrid beyond his current contract, which expires in 2027. Since joining from Flamengo, Vinicius has become a crucial player for Los Blancos, helping them secure three LaLiga titles and two Champions League triumphs.
Although there were rumors of a potential transfer to the Saudi Pro League last year, with reports suggesting a staggering €1 billion contract offer, Vinicius made it clear that he sees his future at the Santiago Bernabeu. Ahead of Madrid’s Champions League last-16 clash against Atletico Madrid, the Brazilian expressed his desire to renew his contract as soon as possible.
“I’m calm because I have a contract until 2027 and I hope I renew as soon as possible,” Vinicius told reporters. “I’m happy here, with the best coach, with the best fans. They all love me, and I don’t think I could be better anywhere else than here. I’m here to follow history and continue the journey that the president and the club have set me on. This is where I wanted to be as a child, and I want to stay.”
Vinicius has been in sensational form in the Champions League this season, directly contributing to nine goals in eight appearances (seven goals, two assists). He aims to reach double figures for goal involvements for the fourth consecutive edition of the tournament. Only Cristiano Ronaldo has achieved this feat for Madrid, doing so eight times overall.
After scoring in Madrid’s Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund last June, Vinicius was tipped by many to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or. However, he ultimately finished second to Manchester City midfielder Rodri. Despite the disappointment, Vinicius insists he has moved on from the snub.
“People vote for what they believe. I have my thoughts,” Vinicius stated. “I never dreamed of winning the Ballon d’Or. When you come close, you start to believe it, but I know I’ll have more opportunities. I’ve already won two European Cups, and I’m here to win many more.”
Regarding his decision to skip the prestigious awards ceremony, Vinicius clarified that he simply followed the club’s instructions. “I just do what the club tells me. They asked me to stay away, and I was calm,” he explained.
Madrid and Atletico have faced each other in the knockout stages of the European Cup/Champions League on five previous occasions. In all five instances (1958-59, 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16, and 2016-17, including two finals), Los Blancos emerged victorious or progressed to the next round.
As Madrid prepares for their clash against Atletico, Vinicius remains focused on his future at the club and his determination to achieve further success.
