José Mourinho Rejects 'Untouchable' Status for Players as Vinícius Júnior Returns to Starting XI

José Mourinho confirmed Vinícius Júnior will start Wednesday's Champions League match against RB Leipzig despite the forward having scored only one goal this season.

José Mourinho announced that Vinícius Júnior will return to the Real Madrid starting XI for Wednesday’s Champions League fixture against RB Leipzig. The Brazil international is currently serving a four-game suspension in LaLiga, limiting his availability to European competition. In his most recent appearance, a 4-3 victory over Roma, Vinícius was substituted in the 58th minute before his replacement, Endrick, inspired the comeback win.

Addressing the media on Tuesday, Mourinho stated that "only the badge is untouchable," emphasizing that performance rather than status or tenure dictates a player's standing. Vinícius has struggled with form this season, contributing just one goal across all competitions. He faces internal competition for his position from record summer signing Yan Diomande and Endrick, both of whom started in Sunday’s 4-1 win against Sevilla.

Real Madrid currently holds maximum points in the Champions League following victories over Inter Milan and Roma. Despite this, Mourinho noted the club's immediate objective is qualifying for the knockout phase and avoiding the playoff round rather than winning the tournament. In domestic play, Madrid trails LaLiga leaders Barcelona by six points heading into Sunday’s Clásico at Camp Nou.

Defender Ibrahima Konaté also addressed a September incident where he, Vinícius, and Kylian Mbappé declined to wear pre-match T-shirts regarding a migration crisis in Ceuta. Konaté explained he did not understand the shirt's message at the time and remained focused on the match. The defender praised Mourinho’s leadership, noting the manager possesses an aura that commands respect without the need to speak.