According to a report by FootballTransfers on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Vinicius Junior is facing increasing criticism at Real Madrid following another underwhelming display, while Yan Diomande is strengthening his chances of taking the Brazilian's place in Jose Mourinho's starting line-up.

The winger's recent struggles have raised questions about his importance to the Spanish giants, particularly as Diomande continues to impress with his performances.

Vinicius has endured a difficult campaign, failing to reproduce the form that previously established him as one of Europe's most dangerous attacking players.

The 26-year-old has now gone six consecutive appearances without scoring or registering an assist. His difficulties were again noticeable during Wednesday's Champions League clash against AEK in Athens.

Despite starting on the left wing, Vinicius failed to complete a single dribble for the third consecutive match. He managed just one attempt against the Greek side, while Diomande recorded seven attempts and completed four despite playing on his weaker side.

The Ivorian youngster has also emerged as one of La Liga's most effective dribblers, averaging 4.27 successful dribbles per 90 minutes. His figures place him ahead of Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and Deportivo La Coruna's Yeremay.

Diomande has taken advantage of Vinicius' four-game domestic suspension to establish himself in his preferred left-wing position, using the opportunity to deliver impressive performances.

His recent displays have reportedly strengthened calls for Mourinho to give him more regular opportunities in Real Madrid's starting eleven.

Meanwhile, Vinicius' poor form has affected his Estimated Transfer Value. FootballTransfers' November update shows that his valuation has dropped from €116.1 million to €99.7 million.

In contrast, Diomande's valuation has risen to €101.4 million, placing him above the Brazilian winger.

Former Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti has also expressed sympathy for Vinicius' current situation.

"I feel sorry for him! He hasn't been at his best for months now! He's struggling with his final touch, he's wasting so many chances - he's no longer a threat," Umtiti said.

Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Santi Canizares also questioned whether the Brazilian was doing enough on the pitch to justify his status at the club.

"Vinicius thinks he has a certain status, and contractually he does, but he's incapable of justifying it on the pitch," he stated.

However, Mourinho defended Vinicius following the encounter against AEK, describing his performance as acceptable while acknowledging that it was not extraordinary.