Jose Mourinho Condemns Alleged Bullying of Vinicius Jr During Real Madrid's Win at Espanyol in La Liga 2026-27

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has launched a scathing attack on Espanyol, alleging a deliberate campaign of 'bullying' against Vinicius Jr. during their 2-1 La Liga victory at the RCDE Stadium on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Mourinho, in his first league match back at the helm of Real Madrid, declared that the treatment of the 26-year-old Brazilian international had become 'excessive' and highlighted a coordinated effort by opponents to target him from the very first minute. La Liga 2026–27: Debutant Carlos Espi Strikes Late Winner Hands Jose Mourinho-Managed Real Madrid Victory Over Espanyol in Season Opener.

'Vini isn't a saint, but what people do to him is too much,' Mourinho stated in his post-match press conference. 'It started in the first minute. It's something that has a format, one opponent after another after another, 'I foul him, then you foul him, if I have a yellow card, you do it...'.The Portuguese coach contrasted this behaviour with societal norms, adding, 'We're in a social era of anti-bullying, but with Vini, we're still in the bullying era, whether it's from opponents or from the public', Real Madrid boss started as per Associated Press. 

Match Incidents andJose Mourinho's Concerns

The contentious fixture saw Vinicius Jr. subjected to boos and what were described as "beach ball chants" from the home crowd throughout the game. He was involved in several heated exchanges, notably receiving a booking after a dispute with Espanyol's Álex Calatrava, who Real Madrid felt could have been sent off for an early challenge on the winger. Espanyol manager Manolo González, however, countered Mourinho's claims, suggesting Vinicius Jr. himself should have been dismissed for bookings.

Mourinho also revealed that he had spoken to Vinicius Jr. at halftime about maintaining emotional control and even urged him to be cautious with any goal celebrations to avoid further provocation.

A Dramatic La Liga Opener

The match itself proved to be a thrilling curtain-raiser for the 2026/27 La Liga season. Real Madrid took an early lead through Jude Bellingham, who headed home in the 9th minute. Espanyol fought back, with Álex Calatrava levelling the score on the half-hour mark. The game appeared headed for a draw until substitute Carlos Espi, making his official debut for Real Madrid, snatched a dramatic 90th-minute winner, securing a vital three points for Mourinho's side.

This victory marked a significant start for Mourinho, who was officially unveiled as Real Madrid's head coach for his second spell on August 18, 2026, with a contract running until June 2029. Will Lamine Yamal Play in Elche vs Barcelona La Liga 2026-27 Match?.

Key Match Details

Recent Head-to-Head (La Liga)

Mourinho's strong comments underscore the ongoing narrative surrounding Vinicius Jr. and the intense scrutiny he faces from opposition players and fans, setting an early combative tone for Real Madrid's new La Liga campaign under 'The Special One'.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 23, 2026 05:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).