For days, the rumors have been swirling through the Spanish media. Vinicius Junior and Saudi Arabia – is there something to it? Coach Carlo Ancelotti is annoyed by the constant topic.
The reports are not new. As early as the summer, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is said to have offered Vinicius Junior a five-year contract worth around 200 million euros per season plus bonuses for a move to the Saudi Pro League. Al-Ahli would be the chosen club, where, among others, Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino are under contract.
Vinicius is keeping a low profile on the rumors. “Nobody has spoken to him yet,” he said after the 3-2 Champions League win at Manchester City. He said he would have to “talk to the president.”
The following sentences should at least have had a calming effect on Real fans. Because Vinicius also explained that negotiations with Real are already underway to extend his contract, which runs until 2027. “I hope that all negotiations can be completed in the next few days and that I can stay here for a long time. I want to make history,” said the 24-year-old.
Carlo Ancelotti was also asked about this recurring topic on Friday, but he was not particularly keen on doing so. “This topic tires me,” said the Italian. He is not worried, because Vinicius is “happy. He is doing well. I see him as very motivated.”
Valverde has to help out again
Ancelotti is more concerned about the injury situation. Defenders David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger will continue to be out for Saturday’s game in Pamplona against CA Osasuna, and backup right-back Lucas Vazquez is also unavailable. According to Ancelotti, Fede Valverde will have to help out on the right again.
Real can take the lead in the title race this time. Atletico (Saturday, 6:30 p.m. against Celta Vigo) and Barcelona (Monday at 9 p.m. against Rayo Vallecano) will not enter the race until later. Ancelotti’s record speaks for itself: he has never lost to Osasuna, and the Whites have won the last four meetings. Nevertheless, the coach warned: “If we don’t understand tomorrow that this is one of those moments, then we’ll make a mistake.”
