Vinicius Junior has been warned not to repeat Neymar’s career-defining mistake by pushing for a move away from Real Madrid amid ongoing Saudi Pro League speculation.
The Brazil international remains under contract until 2027, but questions persist over his long-term commitment, with no extension agreed and doubts raised over his role in the collective.
Former Brazil and Tottenham midfielder Sandro has urged Vinicius to stay put and continue competing for Ballon d’Or honours rather than chasing riches elsewhere.
Neymar left Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain in 2017 in a record-breaking €222 million move, but is widely viewed as having missed out on multiple Ballon d’Or opportunities after that decision.
Sandro believes Vinicius risks a similar fate if he leaves Madrid at this stage of his career.
[BOYLE SPORTS reports] Sandro said Vinicius should “focus on Real Madrid” and warned: “Do not do what Neymar did at Barcelona and leave.”
He also referenced his own career, admitting he rushed into leaving Tottenham and later regretted the decision.
Sandro added that Vinicius leaving Madrid now would “100%” damage his career, insisting Neymar’s Barcelona exit remains “one of the biggest mistakes in all of football.”
The former midfielder claimed Neymar could have won “three or four Ballon d’Or trophies” had he stayed alongside Lionel Messi.
Vinicius’ situation has grown more tense this season, with reports suggesting he has become a disruptive presence and was even jeered by Madrid supporters during a La Liga clash with Sevilla.
With key decisions looming in 2026, Real Madrid may consider offers if Vinicius does not fully commit to the club’s direction under Xabi Alonso.
For now, the debate continues over whether Vinicius will knuckle down in Spain or follow Neymar’s path in pursuit of a lucrative move elsewhere.
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