Vinicius Jr. Impresses in Early Real Madrid Preseason Amid Contract Talks

VALDEBEBAS, SPAIN – Vinicius Jr. has returned to Real Madrid training camp displaying heightened energy adn focus, according to club sources, as negotiations regarding a contract extension remain ongoing. The 23-year-old Brazilian forward’s strong start to the short preseason at Real Madrid’s Valdebebas training facility has quickly garnered attention.

The winger’s current contract with Los Blancos is set to expire in June 2027, and discussions regarding a renewal have been paused since february, when the club initiated talks by inquiring about Vinicius’s salary expectations. While both parties express a desire to reach an agreement, a deal has yet to be finalized.

Key Details & Context:

• Contract Status: Vinicius Jr.’s current contract includes an estimated annual salary of €10 million, with a release clause of €1 billion.
• Preseason Location: Real Madrid’s preseason training is taking place at the Ciudad Real Madrid,commonly known as Valdebebas,a 40-hectare complex located in the northern part of Madrid.
• Ancelotti’s Dual role: Carlo Ancelotti’s simultaneous management of both Real Madrid and the Brazil national team is a meaningful factor in Vinicius’s ambitions.

Motivations for Peak Performance

Beyond club success,Vinicius is keenly focused on establishing himself as a key player for Brazil ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup,which will be co-hosted by the United States,Canada,and Mexico. He has made 28 appearances for the Brazilian national team, scoring 5 goals, but has yet to make a significant impact in a major international tournament.

The appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as Brazil’s manager, announced in January 2024, is viewed as a perhaps pivotal development for Vinicius. Ancelotti’s established rapport with the player at Real Madrid is expected to foster a conducive habitat for Vinicius to thrive on the international stage.

Club insiders report Vinicius appears “very eager” to recapture his peak form, aiming to demonstrate his value both to Real Madrid and to solidify his position within the Brazilian national team.His strong start to preseason suggests a persistent mindset as he prepares for a crucial season.