Vinicius Junior (foto: Getty Images)
Vinícius Júnior has spoken publicly for the first time since Brazil's World Cup exit, admitting the tournament ended in painful disappointment.
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Vinícius Júnior has spoken for the first time since Brazil's shock elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting he needed several days to process another painful disappointment for the five-time world champions.
The Real Madrid forward was one of Brazil's standout performers throughout the tournament, finishing with four goals and one assist. However, his impressive individual displays were not enough to prevent Brazil from crashing out in the Round of 16 after a surprise defeat to Norway.
It was another bitter chapter in Brazil's recent World Cup history, with the Seleção still searching for their first world title since 2002.
"I would like to apologise. I promise to continue fighting to make the dream of all of Brazil come true and bring us back to the top of world football. I wanted to succeed so much. I prepared intensely for the tournament, I was fully focused and I still feel we could have done much more," Vinícius wrote.
The 25-year-old also expressed his pride at representing his country despite the painful exit.
"We had a strong enough team, but we didn't succeed. I'm extremely proud to wear this shirt and it's hard to explain the feelings after being eliminated from the World Cup," he added.
After an exhausting campaign for both club and country, Vinícius will now begin his summer break before returning to Real Madrid, where a new era has begun under head coach José Mourinho.
The Brazilian's future in Madrid will also remain one of the biggest talking points in the coming months. His current contract expires at the end of next season, and negotiations over a new deal have yet to produce an agreement. Unless progress is made soon, speculation over his long-term future is likely to intensify.
Real Madrid also faces a crucial campaign after enduring one of their most disappointing seasons in recent memory. The Spanish giants finished without a major trophy and now look to Mourinho to restore stability and return the club to the top of European football.