Marcel Desailly Urges Real Madrid to Sell Vinicius Junior Amid Struggles with Mbappe Partnership

Desailly Calls for Vinicius Junior's Exit from Real Madrid

Marcel Desailly, the 1998 World Cup winner and former France international, has made a bold claim that Real Madrid should have sold Vinicius Junior in the recent transfer window. The French legend points to the ongoing tactical difficulties in accommodating both the Brazilian winger and Kylian Mbappe in the starting lineup, which he believes is disrupting the team's balance.

Challenges Under Mourinho's Return

Since Jose Mourinho took charge again this summer, Real Madrid opened a new chapter, securing Vinicius on a long-term deal after drawn-out talks and a transfer saga involving Arsenal. Despite this commitment, Vinicius has seen a steep drop in form and has struggled to find his best level. A key issue seems to be his ineffective partnership with Mbappe, which has fueled growing criticism from outside the club.

Desailly Questions Retention of Both Forwards

"I think Real Madrid should have let Vinicius leave. They need to look for other players," Desailly told beIN Sports (via RM4Arab). "Once again, we are talking about the partnership between Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius. This partnership has not proven successful."

"In my personal opinion as an analyst, I think it would be better for him to leave, and let’s see whether he would be able to erase all the negative thoughts and opinions directed towards him."

Recent Setbacks Highlight Issues

Vinicius’ struggles were clear during Real Madrid’s Champions League match against Roma at the Stadio Olimpico. Trailing 3-1, Mourinho substituted him just before the 60-minute mark after Vinicius lost possession leading to Roma’s second goal. His replacements, Endrick and Arda Guler, sparked a remarkable comeback with Endrick, Carlos Espriu, and Antonio Rudiger playing key roles.

The forward was visibly upset after being taken off early and admitted feeling naturally angry because he always wants to be on the pitch. His frustrations deepened when he received a surprise four-match La Liga ban following a red card against Villarreal. Vinicius revealed he learned of the suspension only upon arriving at the stadium.

Impact of Suspension and Upcoming Challenges

With Vinicius sidelined, Mourinho faces the next four league games without his star winger, including the first El Clasico of the season. It’s expected that Endrick and Guler will step up after their impressive impact in Italy. This forced break might offer Vinicius a chance to reset away from pressure while providing Madrid a chance to experiment with their attack without him.

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