LaLiga: Real Madrid team is more important – Mourinho hints at benching Vinicius Jr

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has suggested that Vinicius Junior could be left on the bench when the club returns to full squad availability for its upcoming fixtures.

The Brazilian forward has struggled for form this season, managing just one goal across all competitions.

Vinicius is currently serving a three-match suspension in LaLiga, which has given Yan Diomande an opportunity to feature in the team and impress.

With Vinicius approaching the end of his suspension, Mourinho was asked whether the forward’s return would create a selection dilemma.

The Portuguese manager made it clear that the team’s needs would take priority over individual players when making his decisions.

“The team is what matters most,” Mourinho said.

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He added: “It’s true that Vinicius has played in the last two Champions League matches. But once things return to normal and he is fully available, I will manage the situation accordingly.”