The past week has not been kind to Real Madrid, and more so for Vinicius Jr.
Despite being the protagonist of Los Blancos’ comeback win over Borussia Dortmund last week, the Brazilian phenom was part of the team that suffered a 0-4 hammering against Barcelona at Santiago Bernabeu.
His week only got worse when he was snubbed of the Ballon d’Or at the last minute after being convinced that the title was his for several months.
The week may get worse
The Ballon d’Or defeat has left Vinicius in a vulnerable position, and understandably so for he was on the verge of completing the dream of a lifetime.
Now, according to reports from COPE, the upcoming game against Valencia at Mestalla this weekend may rub salt in his wounds.
It has been suggested that fans at the Mestalla have prepared a song to receive Vinicius on Saturday night which revolves around him not winning the Ballon d’Or and aims to rattle the player with their chants.
After all, Vinicius and Mestalla do not share the best of relations after what unfolded in recent years.
Two years ago, the Brazilian was subjected to severe racial slur at the venue during the La Liga clash between Real Madrid and Valencia, while last season, controversy brewed once again when the referee prematurely blew the whistle in the buildup to Los Blancos’ winner.
While there is seemingly nothing that can be done against chants of Vinicius losing the award, Real Madrid will be alert to any racial slur against the player on the night.
More important for the management, however, will be to keep the player in good mental spirits after the defeat and ensure that his season is not derailed.