The Brazilian winger is beaming anew.
Five goals, four setup passes, and there is a feeling that football has returned to his playing style this season - smooth, happy - after a varied performance the previous year.
This past Saturday's 3-1 victory versus the Yellow Submarine, the Brazilian who powers Real Madrid function performed anew.
He finished with two goals, while also being the club's standout in ball carries (six), scoring chances made (several), strikes at target (multiple), and deliveries in attacking areas (46).
Twelve months subsequent to his personal second-place Golden Ball result, it appears Vini Jr has recognized that the French star's dominance in offensive play is undeniable, as the duo persist in partnering with destructive effect to support Madrid to the summit of La Liga.
Versus the Yellow Submarine, when the Brazilian earned a penalty, he looked up at his teammate. "Should you take it?" he inquired the designated penalty taker.
The Frenchman delegated to him the role, an indication of friendship that persisted following the final whistle via digital channels. "Forever by your side," shared Mbappe. Vinicius answered: "We sail in unison, my friend."
However away from public view, the quarter-century-old South American's Madrid future has never been more uncertain as discussions to renew his deal beyond 2027 persist in deadlock.
He left Flamengo to move to Los Blancos back in 2018 claiming triple domestic titles and the European Cup on two occasions, yet the duration his joy keeps appearing at Santiago Bernabeu is yet unknown.
His Career in the Spanish capital appears more uncertain than before
The new coach, the team's leader in Madrid, stated: "I appreciate to see him grin - it's particularly important."
This was an illuminating statement. The question of whether Vini Jr appears happy or remains serious has become a Spanish debate.
During joyful moments, certain people praise him as an emblem of optimism; others accuse him of hubris. When he protests, he's called rude.
When he keeps quiet, people say he's dissatisfied regarding his agreement. If he cries, observers advise him to act properly.
A performance, a victory display, a complaint - every one turns into a referendum about his personality.
His current form, his best start in a campaign since moving to Real Madrid, has silenced critics currently.
However they remain always close by - in media, online, or in the stands - waiting to criticize following an error. Spain, or somewhat some sections, celebrates his goals while scrutinizing his conduct.
Additionally, the future for Vinicius with Los Blancos feels less certain than ever.
Following the FIFA Club World Cup, contract negotiations with the athlete and the club were nearly complete.
Vini Jr also lowered his financial expectations, keen to extend through 2030. The two entities were close. Subsequently negotiations stalled.
It coincided with the arrival of Xabi Alonso, but it has stronger association with the athlete and his representatives pausing before comprehending his role in the team - since Kylian commands the frontline - while acknowledging that Alonso has promised his compatriot to play him in left attacking role, a competition Vinicius has secured temporarily.
Within Valdebebas, the team's practice center, rarely anyone questions his talent. Yet Alonso's reshaping of Madrid - player changes, his priority on tactical structure - has turned Vinicius among multiple choices in left attacking position, not anymore the certain selection he was during the Italian's tenure. The player desires to observe how this evolves.
Real Madrid considers a determination should happen by the summer, including the potential of parting ways should Vinicius fails to agree a new deal.
Weekly that elapses lacking resolution nourishes the perception that a professional having claimed all important trophies, who earned The Best, and persists part of the best, is somehow fighting for acceptance.
His Frustration cannot be considered Childishness - it's preservation'
The hostility directed at the Brazilian exists - and carries names, dates, and judicial consequences.
He has faced abused at venues in various Spanish cities. He has given evidence in court cases after an effigy displaying his kit was displayed on a bridge.
He has observed supporters receiving penalties with probation for discriminatory behavior in one city and Mallorca, mostly thanks to the organization's work to ensure these incidents {do not remain|are not left|
