Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has downplayed rumors linking Brazilian star Vinícius Jr. with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, insisting the 24-year-old is happy at the club and focused on making history with Los Blancos.
Vinícius Jr.’s Current Form and Suspension
Vinícius has been in fine form this season, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in 15 LaLiga appearances. However, he is currently serving a two-match suspension after receiving a red card against Valencia on January 3.
The forward missed Madrid’s 4-1 win over Las Palmas last weekend and will also sit out their upcoming clash with Real Valladolid.
Ancelotti on Vinícius’ Importance to Madrid
Despite Vinícius’ absence, Ancelotti emphasized that Real Madrid knows how to win without him:
“People have forgotten that without Vini we have won two Champions Leagues. He is an undisputed player.”
The Italian coach added that the suspension provides an opportunity for Vinícius to rest and recover:
“It’s good for him to have some days of recovery, to be fresher at the most important moment of the season.”
Saudi Arabia Rumors
Reports in Spain have suggested that a Saudi Arabian club is preparing a massive $550 million offer for Vinícius. However, Ancelotti reiterated the player’s commitment to Real Madrid:
“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.”
Ancelotti acknowledged that he cannot predict whether such an offer will materialize but stated:
“He is making history here, and he wants to continue like this.”
Real Madrid’s Form and Squad Updates
Real Madrid currently leads LaLiga with 46 points from 20 matches, two points ahead of Atletico Madrid. They face Real Valladolid on Saturday, a team they have beaten in their last six league meetings without conceding a single goal.
- Injuries and Returns: Eduardo Camavinga will miss the match, but Aurelien Tchouaméni is set to return after recovering from a left ankle sprain sustained in November.
Ancelotti stressed the importance of maintaining their lead in the league:
“We give the match the importance it deserves. We have to keep the lead and field the best team possible.”
Conclusion
Carlo Ancelotti’s comments reaffirm Vinícius Jr.’s happiness at Real Madrid, dismissing speculation about a potential move to Saudi Arabia. With Madrid in strong form and determined to maintain their position at the top of LaLiga, the focus remains on the team’s performance and their pursuit of silverware this season.
