Mourinho compares Mbappe and Vini Jr to fruit trees after boos
September 11, 2026 13:22
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho publicly defended Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr after both players were booed by supporters at the Bernabeu. Mbappe had opened the scoring in a 2-1 win over Inter Milan and, with that goal, moved into a tie for fifth on the Champions League all-time scorers list.
Mourinho rejected the criticism aimed at their defensive work, using a Portuguese proverb to argue that high-achieving players attract scrutiny. He pointed to statistical indicators and past accomplishments to support his defence of both forwards.
KEY CONTEXT
- The jeers came despite recent high output from the two attackers: Mourinho noted Vinicius’s contributions and records and highlighted Mbappe’s prolific scoring last season (42 goals in 44 appearances) and his nomination for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
- Mourinho described both players as targets for critics because of what they have produced for the club, and praised Mbappe’s commitment on the pitch during the Inter match.
- Spanish football expert Guillem Balague told BBC 5Live that the causes of the boos are uncertain; he suggested factors such as the club’s lack of trophies over the past two years and perceived issues with how the two stars are viewed by fans.
WHY IT MATTERS
Fan discontent can affect dressing-room atmosphere and public perceptions of key players, even when those players are delivering strong individual numbers. Mbappe’s recent goal and seasonal totals underline his ongoing importance to the team, while Mourinho’s defence signals a managerial attempt to protect and stabilise two of the club’s leading attacking figures amid criticism.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether fan sentiment at the Bernabeu shifts following upcoming performances and results.
- If further public endorsements from Mourinho or changes in on-field displays (including defensive work) alter the narrative around Mbappe and Vinicius.
- Any additional commentary from club figures or analysts that sheds light on the reasons behind the supporters’ reactions.
KEY FACTS
- Mbappe scored Real Madrid’s opener in a 2-1 win over Inter Milan.
- That goal moved him into a tie for fifth on the Champions League all-time scorers list.
- Both Mbappe and Vinicius Jr were booed by home fans at the Bernabeu.
- Mourinho defended the pair, referencing a Portuguese proverb and pointing to their statistics and achievements.
- Mbappe scored 42 goals in 44 matches last season and is a Ballon d’Or nominee; Guillem Balague said the exact reasons for the boos are unclear but cited past trophy drought and fan attitudes as possible factors.