Carlo Ancelotti has rallied behind Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr, insisting the Brazilian as crucial for his team despite his penalty miss against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League last 16 on Wednesday.
Vinicius was taken off by Ancelotti before the game took to penalty shootouts in dramatic fashion as Real ultimately booked a place in the last eight of the competition at the expense of Diego Simeone’s men.
Ancelotti revealed after the game that Vinicius asked to be taken off due to fatigue, but now says the Brazilian will be available for selection on Saturday when Real take on Villareal in La Liga as he is an ‘undisputed’ player in his team.
“Vinicius needed more rest. He will be available tomorrow, he has no problem but only tiredness. Vinicius is an undisputed player for us. He’s been so important for this club and for me”, Carlo told the media in his pre-match presser against Villarreal.
This season, Vinicius has secured 26 goal contributions for Real Madrid in all competitions and is expected to remain key for Los Blancos who eye glory in the remaining matches of the 2024/25 campaign.
