Mbappe pushes Vinicius Jr towards Real Madrid exit

Cameron Smith

27 Jan 2025 06:15 CST
3 min read

Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid — © IMAGO

Kylian Mbappe has usurped Vinicius Junior as the new leader of Real Madrid’s dressing room, according to reports in Spain.

The 26-year-old endured a tough start to life at the Santiago Bernabeu, following his free transfer move from Paris Saint-Germain in July, but he has rediscovered his best form over the past few weeks.

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Mbappe grabbed his first Real Madrid hat-trick against Valladolid on Sunday and he has now scored eight goals in his last five appearances for the club.

His burgeoning reputation in the Spanish capital has resulted in a new role as the leader of Real Madrid’s dressing room, as per Cadena Ser.

Vinicius previously held this title, but his ill-discipline has reportedly seen him demoted in 2025.

The Brazil international has received 10 yellow cards so far this season and he has missed Real Madrid’s last two La Liga games through suspension after a red card against Valencia on 3 January.

As a result, Mbappe and Jude Bellingham are now the two clear leaders at Real Madrid, according to Spanish media.

Vinicius Junior to leave Real Madrid?

With Vinicius losing his place as Real Madrid’s key man, rumours of a move to Saudi Arabia are likely to rear their head once again.

The 24-year-old has been continually linked with the Saudi Pro League over the past few months and Al-Ahli are currently plotting a world-record bid, as per GiveMeSport.

The Saudi Arabian club are reportedly prepared to pay €350 million to sign Vinicius this summer, while Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal are also monitoring his situation at Real Madrid.

Vinicius Jr has scored 16 goals and provided 10 assists in all competitions so far this season, but he has less than three years remaining on his Real Madrid deal and an exit could be on the cards this summer.