Echoes at the Bernabéu: Vinícius Júnior and Real Madrid in an 83-Decibel Crisis
18 January 2026
Fans Point the Finger at Vinícius and the Club
In what could be one of Real Madrid’s most chaotic days in recent memory, the Santiago Bernabéu crowd directed blame at Vinícius Júnior alongside club president Florentino Pérez after a Copa del Rey exit to Albacete. The moment Vinícius’s name was read over the PA before the starting lineup, the stadium registered a roar of 83 decibels—the loudest welcome for a lineup in memory.
That din surpassed the jeers aimed at Jude Bellingham, who had already felt the heat from Madrid supporters in the same match. Vinícius, who helped Real Madrid win Champions League titles with his goals, found himself singled out despite his key role in recent success.
According to AS, what hurts Vinícius most is the crowd turning on him; after the match he left the pitch sprinting to the locker room without acknowledging anyone on his way out. He says he does not understand why he is bearing the brunt after all he has given the club and helped win.
Corners of the club’s leadership kept out of the blame: Thibaut Courtois, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo were not held responsible, and the Brazilian insists he did not dodge the challenge as some claimed.
The renewal talks surrounding his contract are a major factor in the tension, with Vinícius seeking Mbappé-like recognition and a sense from the club that he is valued for his impact in recent seasons.
As of now Vinícius sits on the edge of collapse, disappointed by Madrid fans who he believes have not fully acknowledged his contributions, leaving open the possibility of a departure from the Bernabéu.
Note: The article reflects a moment when renewal, pressure and performance collided to spark unrest around a star who has carried Real Madrid’s hopes in Europe.
Punchlines: - Note to Real Madrid: if the fans want to negotiate, they should try speaking at 83 decibels—it’s the only language agents understand. - Invest in earplugs and a good lawyer; the Bernabéu soundtrack just turned into a renewal negotiation.
