Real Madrid’s trip to Elche ended in a league draw, and Vinicius Junior did not hide his frustration. The forward, who had several scoring opportunities but failed to convert any of them, took to social media to address the fans directly. His message was simple: the goals will come back.
Frustration at Elche
Last night’s away match at Elche was a sluggish affair for Vinicius. He was not at his sharpest, and the chances that usually end up in the net went begging. After the final whistle, he posted a message expressing regret over the missed opportunities, describing them as too many. He also assured supporters that he cannot continue to miss that many and that goals will return soon.
The draw leaves Real Madrid with work to do, and Vinicius knows his own contribution in front of goal has been lacking. This season, he has managed just one goal in seven appearances. That is a modest return for a player considered one of European football’s biggest stars. He has, however, provided three assists, showing that he remains involved in the team’s attacking play.
A Settled Future
Vinicius signed a new contract with Real Madrid during the last summer transfer window, ending speculation about his future. Before that, he had been linked with a move to Arsenal, which had worried many Real Madrid fans. The new deal settled those concerns, but his form has not improved early this season. There had been optimism that he would rediscover his best under Jose Mourinho, but that improvement has yet to materialize.
For the past few seasons, Vinicius has not been at his peak. The flashes of brilliance are still there, but the consistency that once made him a nightmare for defenders has been missing. His goal drought is the most visible symptom of that dip. Yet he has found other ways to contribute.
Contributions Beyond Goals
Against Real Betis, Vinicius won a late penalty. Kylian Mbappe stepped up to take it but missed, so the forward’s effort did not translate into an assist or a goal. Still, it was a moment that showed his ability to influence games even when not scoring. Defensively, he also put in a shift against Inter Milan, tracking back and helping the team. Those contributions matter, but for a player of his caliber, the goals are what people remember.
Vinicius is well aware of that. His social media post after the Elche game was a recognition that he needs to do better in front of goal. He noted that another match is coming on Sunday, a clear signal that he is already looking ahead.
The Madrid Derby Awaits
That next match is the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid. It is a fixture that always carries extra weight, and for Vinicius, it could be the perfect stage to break his scoring duck. He has a notable rivalry with Atletico, and that history might just provide the motivation he needs to find the net.
Real Madrid will be hoping their forward can channel his frustration into a decisive performance. The derby is not just about local pride; it is a chance for Vinicius to silence critics and remind everyone why he is still a key figure at the club.
Mundo Deportivo noted Vinicius’s social media post, highlighting how the player is publicly owning his struggles. That kind of accountability is rare, and it shows a maturity that may serve him well as he tries to turn his season around.
For now, Vinicius has made his promise. The goals will return, he says. Sunday would be a good time to start.
