Carlo Ancelotti on Vinicius Jr.’s Penalty Miss and Real Madrid’s La Liga Setback
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti addressed Vinicius Jr.’s penalty miss after Los Blancos suffered a 2-1 defeat against Valencia in their recent La Liga match at the Santiago Bernabeu. This loss leaves Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by three points in the league standings, with Barcelona also holding a game in hand.
The game saw Kylian Mbappe fouled in the penalty area early in the 11th minute, presenting Vinicius Jr. with a golden opportunity to put Real Madrid ahead. However, Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili expertly saved Vinicius’s penalty kick, keeping the score level. Valencia then took the lead shortly after through a Mouctar Diakhaby header.
Despite the earlier miss, Vinicius Jr. redeemed himself by scoring for Real Madrid in the 50th minute, equalizing the scoreline. Unfortunately for the home side, Hugo Duro scored a late goal in stoppage time, securing a 2-1 victory for Valencia – their first win against Real Madrid since 2023.
Speaking after the match, Carlo Ancelotti expressed his thoughts on Vinicius Jr.’s penalty miss, stating:
“Penalties? It’s been a difficult season, Bellingham missed, Mbappé missed, Vinicius missed… I wanted to give him some confidence.”
This penalty miss marks the fourth in Vinicius Jr.’s career across all competitions. Out of twelve penalties taken, he has successfully converted eight, resulting in a penalty conversion rate of 66.67%. This season, the Brazilian winger has been a vital attacking force for Real Madrid, having scored 19 goals and provided 13 assists in 42 appearances across all club competitions.
Ancelotti Dismisses Vinicius Jr. Departure Rumors Amidst Saudi Interest
Back in February 2024, Carlo Ancelotti addressed speculation surrounding Vinicius Jr.’s future at Real Madrid, amidst increasing interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League. Vinicius Jr. has become a key figure for Real Madrid, contributing significantly with 104 goals and 73 assists in 307 matches since his arrival from Flamengo in 2018.
When questioned about the possibility of Vinicius Jr. leaving Real Madrid, Ancelotti firmly dismissed the rumors, saying:
“Am I sick of hearing about this? Yes. Am I concerned? No. Does he seem happy? Yes. And we’re happy with him. I have nothing to add to what I told you a few weeks back. It’s not a matter to be discussed here. We don’t talk about that here, and he doesn’t either. I think Vinicius looks the same as ever, eager to prove he’s doing the right things. He performed brilliantly in the last game and he will continue to do so because he’s just starting to regain that match fitness after his injuries. He looks highly motivated, especially when you see what he did against City. The pressure was on him and he dealt with it superbly by making the difference in the match.”
Ancelotti further emphasized Vinicius Jr.’s commitment to Real Madrid and his desire to achieve more with the club:
“I can’t answer these questions about whether or not he’s received any offers or if he’ll change his mind. All I can do is tell you what I see, which is a happy footballer keen to do a good job and make history at this club, that’s all.”
During his time at Real Madrid, Vinicius Jr. has accumulated an impressive list of honors, including:
- Two UEFA Champions League titles
- Two FIFA Club World Cups
- Three La Liga titles
- Two UEFA Super Cups
- Three Supercopas de España
These accolades underscore Vinicius Jr.’s importance to Real Madrid and his successful career with the Spanish giants.
What are your thoughts on Vinicius Jr.’s penalty record and his future at Real Madrid? Share your opinions in the comments below!