José Mourinho has come out in support of Vinícius Júnior following another uncomfortable evening at the Bernabéu, where the Brazilian forward was met with jeers from sections of Real Madrid's own supporters during the club's 2-1 UEFA Champions League victory over Inter on Tuesday.

Despite acknowledging that the attacker is not currently performing at his peak, Mourinho was quick to highlight what Vinícius Júnior continues to bring to the team — pointing specifically to his relentless work rate as evidence that the forward's commitment remains beyond question.

The whistles directed at Vinícius Júnior mark a striking moment for one of world football's most high-profile stars, and the public backing of a figure as prominent as Mourinho underlines the sensitivity surrounding the situation at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Real Madrid secured the three points thanks to the 2-1 result, keeping their UEFA Champions League campaign on track, but the story off the pitch dominated the post-match conversation.