Jose Mourinho wants Vinicius Junior to remain ‘happy’ amid Arsenal links

Vinicius Junior says new Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has told him to remain “happy”, “joyful” and to just play his football as he attempts to thrash out his future.

The 26-year-old Brazil international, who has been linked with a summer move to Arsenal, has returned for pre-season with Alvaro Arbeloa’s successor after his World Cup exploits as the speculation over his continued presence at the Bernabeu continues.

Vinicius, who is out of contract next summer and is yet to agree a new deal, spoke to Real Madrid TV following his second day back.

https://x.com/realmadriden/status/2084293212865536030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

He said: “It has gone very well, getting to know the new coach and the new players and training very hard.

“Mourinho wants me to be as I have always been: happy, joyful and to play my football.

“We have to prepare physically so that during the season, we have fewer injuries and thus be able to count on everyone.”

It emerged last month that the Gunners were exploring the possibility of making a move for the Brazilian, who scored 22 times for Real last season.