José Mourinho has backed Vinícius Júnior amid criticism of the treatment he has received, saying he would likely have pushed for a summer exit if he were in the Brazilian forward’s position.

Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has said he would have considered leaving the Spanish club during the summer transfer window if he were Vinícius Júnior, citing the treatment the forward has faced.

According to Spanish radio network Cadena SER, Mourinho made the comments during a press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s meeting with Sevilla, as the club continued to deal with controversy surrounding the Brazilian international.

Mourinho reportedly expressed disagreement with the four-match suspension handed to Vinícius following his dismissal during Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Villarreal.

The Brazilian was sent off after pulling the hair of Villarreal’s Nathan Saliba and protesting the referee’s decision. The Spanish Football Federation’s disciplinary committee subsequently imposed a two-match ban for the red card offence and an additional two matches for his protests, Reuters reported.

The suspension rules Vinícius out of several important La Liga fixtures, including the upcoming El Clásico against Barcelona on October 25.

Mourinho’s reported remarks suggest he understands why the forward might consider leaving amid the pressure and criticism surrounding him. However, the coach also acknowledged Vinícius’s commitment to Real Madrid despite the challenges.

The Portuguese manager has previously criticised what he described as repeated bullying of the Brazilian by opposing players and supporters.

After Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Espanyol in August, Mourinho said the treatment of Vinícius had become a recurring pattern. He also urged the forward to exercise emotional control when responding to provocation.

“We’re in an era where society is against bullying, yet with Vini we’re still seeing bullying — from opponents and from the crowd,” Mourinho said at the time, according to Reuters.

Mourinho’s latest comments come as questions continue over Vinícius’s future at the Santiago Bernabéu, amid reports of stalled contract negotiations and interest from other clubs.

However, his remarks do not establish that Vinícius intends to leave Real Madrid. The forward’s own position on a possible departure was not confirmed in the reports reviewed.

Real Madrid will have to navigate the coming fixtures without the suspended forward, with the team facing a significant challenge ahead of its meeting with Barcelona.