Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to succeed without “undisputed player” Vinicius Jr while also affirming the Brazilian forward’s commitment to the club.
Speaking ahead of Madrid’s LaLiga clash against bottom-placed Real Valladolid on Saturday, Ancelotti addressed Vinicius’ current absence.
The 24-year-old, who has Cameroonian descent, received a red card during the match against Valencia on January 3 and is serving a two-match suspension. He missed Real Madrid’s 4-1 victory over Las Palmas last weekend.
“People have forgotten that without Vini we have won two Champions Leagues, he is an undisputed player,” Ancelotti said.
“The player is the same as always, it’s good for him to have some days of recovery, to take advantage of and be fresher at the most important moment of the season.”
Vinicius, who has scored eight goals and provided seven assists in 15 league appearances this season, has been linked with a potential January transfer, with reports of a $550 million offer from Saudi Arabia.
However, Ancelotti dismissed these speculations, stating the player is happy at the club.
“What is difficult for me, since I have direct information about the player, is that he is very happy here and wants to make history at Madrid. We are happy here, and we want to make history,” the 65-year-old said.
“You have to ask him, I don’t know if this offer will come or not. He is making history here, and he wants to continue like this.”
Vinicius joined Real Madrid in 2018 and has since won three league titles and two Champions League trophies.
