Vinicius Junior issues playful holiday call to Erling Haaland as World Cup rivals reunite online

Real Madrid and Brazil forward Vinicius Junior has publicly invited Erling Haaland to join him on holiday in Rio de Janeiro, extending their World Cup storyline into the off-season with the help of Hollywood actor Terry Crews.

The Brazilian international posted a series of photos on his social media accounts on Friday showing him spending time with Crews, and used the captions to send a direct message to the Manchester City striker, writing: “We are waiting for you, Erling.”

Vinicius is currently enjoying a short break in his home city before reporting back for pre-season with Real Madrid ahead of the new campaign.

In one of the images, the 23-year-old is captured in a light-hearted moment riding on Crews’ back, while other photos show the pair lifting weights together and touring Vinicius’ personal trophy room. During the visit, the winger also appears to introduce the American actor to some of his family members.

The online invitation adds a fresh chapter to a light-hearted “trilogy” involving Vinicius, Haaland and Crews that has built up around a viral meme shared during the recent World Cup. That meme used artificial intelligence to place the Brazil and Norway forwards into one of the most famous scenes from the film “White Chicks”, in which Crews plays a prominent role.

World Cup rivalry behind the friendship

Vinicius, who grew up in Sao Goncalo, was one of Brazil’s standout performers at the World Cup, scoring four times in the group stage. Despite his form, Brazil’s campaign ended earlier than expected in the last 16, where they were knocked out by Norway.

Haaland was decisive in that match, scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory that sent Norway through at Brazil’s expense. The result brought an abrupt end to the “Selecao” challenge, even after Vinicius’ impressive individual contribution.

One of the most widely shared moments after that game came in the mixed zone at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where Vinicius and Haaland embraced in front of the media. That image of mutual respect between club rivals – Real Madrid and Manchester City faced each other in recent Champions League campaigns – helped frame their World Cup meeting as a duel between two of the sport’s brightest attacking talents rather than an antagonistic rivalry.

The latest social media post, blending holiday snapshots, Hollywood star power and a friendly nod to a former World Cup opponent, continues that narrative of camaraderie between the two forwards.

Off-pitch spotlight on Vinicius

Away from the pitch, Vinicius has been drawing attention in Brazil and abroad for changes to his appearance, which local reports have linked to cosmetic surgery. His new look has fuelled extensive discussion on social networks, further elevating his profile during the close season.

He has also remained highly visible online through his regular interactions with Brazilian influencer Virginia Fonseca. Their relationship has been closely followed by fans, particularly around the time of the World Cup.

The pair announced their separation on 15 May, the eve of the tournament’s opening, a split that generated significant media coverage given Vinicius’ status with the national team. However, recent photos and posts involving both have led to suggestions they have resumed their relationship, with their latest content interpreted by many followers as a sign of reconciliation.

For now, Vinicius’ focus appears to be on making the most of his final days off at home in Rio de Janeiro – and waiting to see whether Haaland responds to the light-hearted open invitation to join him and Crews on holiday.