According to a report by Football Transfers on Friday November 6, 2026, Real Madrid have given Vinicius Junior a limited period to rediscover his best form after growing concerns over his performances and physical condition.

The Brazilian winger has endured a difficult start to the 2026/27 campaign, scoring just once so far this season despite signing a new contract in the summer that made him one of the club’s highest-paid players.

His recent struggles have reportedly prompted concern among officials at the Santiago Bernabeu, with the club keen to understand why one of their most influential players has struggled to make an impact in recent months.

According to FootballTransfers, citing Spanish outlet El Debate, Real Madrid are examining Vinicius’ situation from several angles, including his physical condition, sporting performances and personal circumstances.

The club are reportedly studying his body morphology to determine whether there have been changes that could explain concerns that he is no longer reaching the maximum running speed he previously displayed.

His performance in the 3-2 victory over AEK Athens on Wednesday is said to have increased those concerns. Vinicius was substituted in the 81st minute after failing to attempt a dribble throughout his appearance, while Real Madrid went on to score the winning goal after his departure.

The 26-year-old has also managed just one goal and one assist in his last nine appearances across all competitions. Furthermore, he has not completed a full 90 minutes for Real Madrid in the last two months.

His dribbling statistics have also declined. The Brazilian is reportedly averaging 1.8 attempted dribbles per game this season, compared with 2.4 per game last campaign.

That drop is particularly significant because his ability to beat defenders, create opportunities and unsettle opposition backlines has been one of the most important aspects of his game.

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly determined to help the forward recover his confidence and rediscover the qualities that made him one of the club’s most dangerous attacking players.

Mourinho has continued giving Vinicius opportunities despite his disappointing performances, believing that regular involvement could help him return to his best level.

However, the Portuguese manager is also expected to make decisions based on what benefits the team. The report claims that Vinicius has until December to demonstrate a significant improvement or risk losing his place in the starting line-up.

The matches against Celta Vigo, PSV and Alaves could provide him with opportunities to respond before the more demanding fixtures against Arsenal and Athletic Bilbao in December.

Real Madrid are also reportedly preparing to hold open discussions with the player to understand whether anything outside football is affecting his performances.

Meanwhile, the emergence of Yan Diomande has created another challenge for Vinicius. The €125 million summer signing also prefers playing on the left wing, meaning he is competing for the same position as the Brazilian.

Diomande’s presence gives Mourinho another option if Vinicius continues to struggle. Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to give more opportunities to players who are performing well rather than continuing to select individuals based solely on their reputation.

For Vinicius, the situation represents a major test. He remains one of the club’s most talented players, but his recent performances have not reflected the standards expected of him.

The Brazilian will therefore need to improve his attacking contribution, regain his confidence in one-on-one situations and demonstrate that he can still make the difference in important matches.