Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti remains unfazed by the persistent rumors surrounding Vinícius Júnior's potential move to Saudi Arabia, expressing confidence in the Brazilian star's commitment to the club. Despite reports suggesting the Saudi Pro League is prepared to make Vinícius the highest-paid player in world football, Ancelotti maintains a composed stance on the situation.
"Yes, I'm tired of this topic but I'm not worried," Ancelotti stated on Friday. "I see him happy and we are happy with him. There's nothing more to add with respect to what I said a week ago. It's not a topic that we discuss here, he doesn't discuss it."
The 24-year-old Brazilian international, currently in his seventh season with Real Madrid, recently hinted at his future plans following Tuesday's 3-2 Champions League victory at Manchester City. Vinícius expressed hope of reaching an agreement with Madrid to extend his stay beyond 2027, though sources told ESPN that his representatives have communicated substantial financial demands to the club, reportedly seeking to earn more than incoming star Kylian Mbappé.
Ancelotti praised Vinícius's recent performance against Manchester City, where he was named Player of the Match after providing two assists and five key passes. "He did very well in the last game," the Italian coach remarked. "I see him very motivated especially after what he did in the game against City because he had a lot of pressure heading into that game and he withstood that pressure by making a difference."
While addressing the broader implications of Saudi Arabia's growing influence in football, Ancelotti offered a measured perspective on the Saudi Pro League's development. "It shouldn't surprise us that a country wants to invest in football," he said. "Saudi Arabia has the right to prepare for the 2034 World Cup. It's a market that may be less competitive now than in Europe but in the future it could be as competitive as Europe."
The Real Madrid coach, whose contract runs until 2026, even left the door open for his own potential future in Saudi football, stating, "Why not, if I want to continue in football. The question is whether I want to continue [coaching] after I leave Real Madrid."
As LaLiga leaders Real Madrid prepare for their upcoming match against Osasuna before hosting Manchester City in the Champions League playoff return leg, Ancelotti emphasized his team's focus and motivation. "We are very motivated," he declared. "We want to keep our position at the top of the table. The good things we did against City we have to do them again against Osasuna. Our team understands very well when the moment is crucial and when they have to give 100%."
