Vinicius Jr. may have helped Real Madrid secure a 3-1 win over Pachuca in the Club World Cup, but the Brazilian winger is making headlines for all the wrong reasons after a failed rainbow flick that left fans more frustrated than impressed.
In an attempt to bring some flair to the game, Vinicius went for a flashy rainbow flick, but it completely flopped. Instead of wowing the crowd, it turned into a viral moment online, with fans mocking the 24-year-old and questioning whether he still deserves a place at a club like Real Madrid. Some even said he doesn’t look like a professional footballer anymore.
Vinicius, once one of Europe’s most feared wingers, has been struggling to find consistent form lately. This failed trick has only added more fuel to the ongoing criticism. While he did contribute to the win, his recent performances haven’t lived up to the standard he set in past seasons.
Despite the backlash, Madrid manager Xabi Alonso defended his player. “He’s fine, but we all want to push him to be decisive, as he has been on many occasions,” Alonso said, adding that Vinicius’s unpredictable style is what makes him special; he just needs to reconnect with it.
But fans weren’t as kind. One user brutally commented, “Forget Ballon d’Or level. Forget Superstar level. Forget Real Madrid level. Dude looks like he shouldn’t be playing professional football.” Another added, “This is the 19th time Vinicius is trying a rainbow flick and has failed all. Someone tell Vini Jr to try some other skills.”
Real Madrid’s tournament hopes now rest on their next game against Salzburg. If they lose and Al-Hilal wins, Madrid will be knocked out, despite entering as one of the favourites to lift the trophy. All eyes will be on Vinicius to see if he can silence the critics and step up when it counts.