Headline: Santiago Canizares Critiques Vinicius Jr. Over Ballon d’Or Disappointment and On-Field Performance
Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Santiago Canizares has expressed his strong criticism of Vinicius Jr., suggesting that the Brazilian is struggling to cope after missing out on the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
Canizares also questioned Real Madrid’s choice to boycott the awards ceremony in Paris that year, reasoning that the club’s response has affected the expectations placed on their forward.
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During a discussion on Movistar Plus Deportes’ La Casa del Fútbol (h/t SPORT), Canizares pointed to the disappointment over the Ballon d’Or as a pivotal moment affecting Vinicius’ recent demeanor.
The former goalkeeper, who had two stints with Real Madrid from 1988 to 1992 and then from 1994 to 1998, noted that the club’s public support for the player has influenced the current situation.
Canizares has launched fresh criticism towards Vinicius. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
“What has hit Vinicius the hardest is missing out on that Ballon d’Or and finding himself in a situation where a club bends to his will and does not travel to the Ballon d’Or ceremony,” remarked Canizares.
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Canizares Questions the Treatment Vinicius Receives at Real Madrid
Canizares opined that the Club’s public support for Vinicius post-Ballon d’Or has fostered expectations that the player has struggled to meet on the field.
He further questioned how this incident could have altered the Brazilian’s views on his role within the club, stating:
“These are things that don’t come naturally, and now Vini thinks he has a certain status, which he does have contractually…”
Vinicius is not enjoying the best run of form this season. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
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“Now Mourinho has to step in to defend Vinicius at every press conference.”
Canizares Critiques Vinicius’ Overall Performance
Ultimately, Canizares asserted that Vinicius needs to prove his worth through his on-field actions rather than leaning on his reputation and contractual agreement at the club.
He concluded his remarks with unambiguous criticism of Vinicius’ current impact, stating,
“Vinicius is incapable of justifying that status on the pitch.”
