Vinicius Junior was the top target for Arsenal this summer, with the Premier League champions failing to lure the Brazilian to London.

The 26-year-old opted to remain at the Bernabeu as he signed a contract extension, with the fresh deal set to expire in the summer of 2032.

He made the decision to remain at the La Liga club and play his football under Jose Mourinho, rather than join Arsenal and be under the management of Mikel Arteta. Now the Portuguese manager has revealed why Vinicius opted to remain at Los Blancos.

Why Vinicius Junior opted to remain at Real Madrid

Arteta spoke about his desire to strengthen his squad to challenge on multiple fronts for silverware. He wants to retain their Premier League title and go one better in the Champions League after they lost the final last season to PSG.

In order to do this, the club chased a deal for Vinicius Junior but ultimately failed to convince him to join the Gunners.

Now, Mourinho has spoken about the Brazilian’s decision to remain at Real Madrid, with the legendary manager surprised he didn’t force a move away from the club.

Speaking ahead of Madrid’s match with Sevilla, he said: “He's a fantastic guy, and it's easy to get along with him. I spend a few minutes alone with him every day. I value him immensely because he always manages to live and survive with a smile.

“If I were in his shoes, I probably wouldn't be here. I would have forced a move to a country where he'd be respected, but out of loyalty to Real Madrid and love for the club, he stayed. He believes things can improve, and he still has that smile. Nothing and no one can take it away from him.”

Real Madrid under Jose Mourinho

The two-time Champions League-winning manager is currently in charge of Madrid for the second time in his career.

Mourinho’s task is to bring silverware back to the Bernabeu, just like the first time he was at the club, as Real Madrid have not claimed any in the last two campaigns.

While there appeared to be an overall positive feeling about his appointment, as he was seen as an authoritative figure that could sort out the dressing room.

However, the club are already nine points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race and have given a level of performance this season that would have pundits thinking they can claim the Champions League.