It's now official. Vinícius Júnior, in the midst of contract renewal talks with Real Madrid, has received unexpected news. One of his main personal supporters will leave the Spanish capital.
The Brazilian winger isn't going through his best moment. Although he remains important in Xabi Alonso's plans, the spotlight has shifted. His contract renewal remains unsolved.
The agreement with Real Madrid was very advanced a few months ago. Vinícius had agreed with Florentino Pérez to finalize the renewal before the Club World Cup. However, when the time came, everything came to a halt.
Real Madrid halts Vinícius Júnior's renewal due to his financial demands
Florentino hasn't fully accepted all the Brazilian's requests. Vinícius Júnior wants to earn as much as Mbappé, a very high figure. In this context, the president has decided to wait.
This situation has created noise inside and outside the locker room. The fans are starting to worry about the future of number "7". His current contract ends in June 2027.
For now, everything is on hold. The season is about to start and it will be key for the forward's future. His performance will determine the direction of the negotiations.
His friend leaves Real Madrid after several years without continuity
What is confirmed is the departure of one of Vinícius Júnior's closest friends. He is a compatriot with whom he shared many personal experiences. Their relationship went beyond the field.
He was a bet by Florentino Pérez a few years ago. He arrived at just 18 years old and for a fee of €30 million. Many saw him as "the new Vinícius".
His name is Reinier. He will no longer wear the Real Madrid jersey. After several unsuccessful loan spells, his time at Bernabéu has come to an end.
Reinier signs for Atlético Mineiro and returns to Brazil after closing his spell in Europe
His destination is confirmed: he's returning to Brazil. Atlético Mineiro is the team that has bet on his return. There, Reinier hopes to rediscover his best form.
Real Madrid hasn't issued any lengthy statement about his departure. The decision has been made without much media impact. Inside the locker room, it has left a mark.
Vinícius Júnior loses a great friend. A teammate with whom he shared language, customs, and even vacations. Now he will have to face the new season without that personal support.
With this departure, a chapter that never took off comes to a close. Reinier couldn't meet the expectations that were created upon his arrival. Now, a new stage begins in his home country.
Meanwhile, all eyes remain on Vinícius Júnior. His renewal, his future, and his performance will be key topics this season. Now, he will do it without one of his best personal supporters.
Florentino Pérez, meanwhile, trusts Vinícius to return to his best level. If he does, the renewal will come naturally, but "7" will have to earn it on the field.